Coronavirus: Vertical Systems retains dev team to build ‘game-changing’ agent software

Tech specialist launches four new products to help agents during the pandemic

Travel technology specialist Vertical Systems has unveiled a set of new features built during the COVID-19 crisis having decided not to furlough its development team.

The firms says it took the opportunity to develop “game-changing software” during lockdown.

New systems developed include a credit note back-office system and a re-booking tool for its widely-used Tarsc back-office system.

This technology will help agents to handle the huge numbers of refund and re-booking requests from customers due to the current travel ban.

Agents can issue credit notes directly from an existing customer file as well as amending an existing customer file’s departure dates and financials without having to reload data.

Vertical has also launched VSL Pay, a secure contactless payment solution that agents can use while their bricks and mortar stores are closed.

This allows a travel agent to send a secure payment link to a customer by text or email. Once payment is made the agent will receive an instant alert to proceed with their booking.

Vertical has also launched VSL Call, a new online telephony solution that includes video and voice calls, live chat, video conferencing and a full call management and reporting suite.

Chris North, vertical managing director said: “We decided not to furlough our programming and development teams to take the opportunity to develop new software and further enhance our existing software so our customers are armed with a unique set of tools when they get back to business as the lockdown eases.

“We have been operating since 1981 and are the original creators of homeworking. We feel that our product suite allows you to operate your business efficiently and effectively regardless of your location.

“Life after coronavirus will be very different and our product suite gives users the flexibility to work from any location on any device including a smart phone, iPad or even a Chromebook without the need for a physical phone handset.”