The importance of electronic distribution systems in the tourism and hospitality sectors is increasing both as a means for disseminating travel information and as a facility for accepting bookings and reservations. Using a combination of narrative, analysis and case studies, this book traces the introduction of electronic distribution into the tourism industry. It then places developments in context and assesses the potential of technologies still being developed to affect the tourism sector of the future. It is written from a management, rather than a technical perspective and takes an international approach, with worldwide analysis and case studies encompassing developments in the US, Europe and the global marketplace. Development in all sectors of the tourism and hospitality industries are discussed but particular emphasis is placed on the accommodation product, illustrating its distribution through each of the available systems. This book is reading for lectures, students and researchers in tourism and hospitality management and marketing, and tourism industry staff.