ARTA Chairman Barry Richcreek solicited comments in the travel agent community regarding Sabre's "Value Alerts" after receiving many complaints about the pop-up ad suggestions. The primary concern of agents was the ad's interference with computer screen work areas, though not all MySabre agents experienced the problem. Agents use the MySabre booking system via various methods—some directly from the provider, others from a host agency. The question of where the ads appear on a MySabre screen apparently relates to whether the user is operating with hardware and software as recommended for MySabre, says ARTA. Sabre does not plan to offer the ability to remove the Value Alerts. Therefore, to alleviate agent frustration, ARTA has gained approval from Sabre to place a special web page on ARTAonline.com. This page would allow agents to check the recommended technical requirements by Sabre for proper operation. It would be placed on the outside of the ARTA web site and be available to both ARTA members and non-members at [www.artaonline.com]. "ARTA understands this does not solve agent concerns related to general advertising on MySabre, but it will allow many agents the opportunity to understand why the banner is appearing in their work area and how they can lessen any intrusion," said Richcreek. ARTA plans to keep talking with Sabre about agent concerns regarding the Value Alerts.
