The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) has developed a crisis contingency planning guide available on…
The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) has developed a crisis contingency planning guide available on ASTAnet to help its members examine their businesses during uncertain times.
With a sluggish economy and the potential of war with Iraq, ASTA wanted to provide its members with the tools to protect their businesses, said ASTA President and CEO Richard M. Copland, CTC. This plan guides agents through contingency planning and agency communications in a crisis.
Crisis Planning: Examining Your Business in Uncertain Times is designed to help agencies evaluate their status and think about steps they might take to improve their position. The plan includes basic steps agencies can take, as well as information regarding employees, how to reduce operating expenses, new revenue opportunities, GDS contracts, outside assistance, supplier relationships and what to do if agencies cannot fulfill business obligations. The plan also contains a communications plan with talking points regarding travel during international conflict, client communications and a guide to media relations.
The mission of the American Society of Travel Agents and its affiliated organizations is to enhance the professionalism and profitability of members worldwide through effective representation in industry and government affairs, education and training, and by identifying and meeting the needs of the traveling public. The Society is the world`s largest and most influential travel trade association with over 20,000 members in 140 countries.
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