ATPCO produces technical standards that describe data exchanges (interface standards), the processes to automatically calculate airline pricing and retailing results (processing standards), as well as standards for processes that support these data exchanges and automated calculation such as government and regulatory automation standards (supporting services standards).  Just like the air travel industry, these standards are constantly evolving to support innovation at scale, and to provide the network economics that the airline product distribution ecosystem has come to expect.  David Smith will discuss the challenge of standards setting in a fast and complex environment that is constantly innovating, including capturing value for the industry and why standards are a critical part of that value proposition.  The presentation will highlight harmonization with other industry organizations across an increasingly diverse ecosystem, and the need for digital transformation.  Finally, he will draw conclusions and thought starters on lessons learned and applicability to the broader standards community.

About the Speaker

A major in Accounting and Business Economics, David has spent a 26-year career working in the airline industry in the travel distribution supply chain.  With 10 years at a major European Airline, and 16 years at ATPCO, he has held roles spanning finance, business process re-engineering, outsourcing, program management, commercial negotiation, project office management, data distribution, and standards creation and management.