Check professional credentials

The largest travel agent organization in the world is ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents). The NBTA (National Business Travel Association) includes travel management companies among its members.

I recommend: At NBTA's Web site, look for business travel agencies among the state-by-state list of Allied Members. Check for agent/owner credentials like CTC (Certified Travel Counselor) and CTIE (Certified Travel Industry Executive) conferred by The Travel Institute.

Ask about agency technology

Find an agency with a reservation system that scans ALL fare databases including Web sites. Ask about enhancements like "best fare search," consortium hotel and rental car programs, fare checker, seat checker, unused ticket management and an online booking program. Do they have accounting and reporting technology that tracks travel expenditures and an online booking program you can access 24/7?

I recommend: The major GDS (global distribution systems) are Galileo, Sabre and Worldspan. Most agencies will have one, large agencies more than one.

Bricks-and-mortar vs. online business travel agencies

Companies like CWT (Carlson Wagonlit Travel) and American Express Travel have a large network of local offices under a national or global corporate umbrella. Online agencies like Travelocity, Expedia and Orbitz offer as much or more technology than traditional agencies, with varying levels of personal service.

I recommend: Check out traditional managed business travel programs CWT (Carlson Wagonlit Travel) and American Express, and online programs Travelocity Business, Expedia Corporate Travel, and Orbitz for Business.