Would a new VisitScotland system on the basis of the original Ossian project be expensive to set up and run?
A. Development costs of the Ossian system are not relevant to today’s situation. Indeed, the database itself is believed to have been re-used by SchlumbergerSema, within the new website. The existing website could be modified to the required specification at little cost and maintenance need not be expensive if the work was contracted out, preferably to a Scottish firm. It is questionable whether a booking system is required as many providers offering such a service already exist. All that would be necessary would be to provide links. If a VisitScotland booking system were to be offered it should do so as an optional service in competition with other agencies while freely promoting direct access with providers as an option at all times. The primary function of the website would be to promote Scotland and enable contact with providers, rather than to sell beds. Notes, 1. Q&A 21 has been amended slightly in the light of information received from a supporter. 2. Q&A 17 has been updated.
