As business travel continues its recovery from pandemic-related disruption, experts in the corporate travel industry try to understand the new landscape. Many things have changed in the past two years, and further disruption can’t be ruled out. Although there are many unknowns, there’s one thing we know for sure: travel technology will play a key role in this changing scenario.
It’s not surprising that for many travel managers, technology has become a decisive criteria in the selection of TMCs. A study recently published by the GBTA polled more than 300 global travel managers and revealed that an overwhelming majority (9 in 10) expected TMCs to deliver a consistent tech-based experience that helps them address industry-specific challenges.
In Detail: What Travel Managers Want.
1) Technology As A Top Priority
According to the GBTA survey, travel executives have clear expectations about the elements that will drive success in uncertain scenarios. The survey showed that nearly 60% of managers believe technology is the single most important determining factor when it comes to choosing a TMC. Elements that had priority in the past (such as fees, support, or general account management quality) have now been relegated to an important but secondary position.
2) Key Tools In Business Travel Technology
By far, online booking tools are the most frequently used component of business travel tech. However, some equally useful tools remain under-used, as is the case of single virtual payments, proprietary TMC apps, reporting dashboards, and re-shopping features.
3) More Control Over Sustainable Travel Settings
Online booking tools have provided useful insights into sustainability for several years. Managers are interested in being able to customize settings within their OBTs to add or exclude options like sustainability messaging or listing low-emissions options first.
4) ‘Smart’ Applications And Automation
Automation and advanced software algorithms, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning, have the potential to boost both productivity and efficiency for users of travel applications. According to the GBTA survey, 70% of travel managers view chatbots as one of the most interesting applications of AI, as they’re familiar with how much they can facilitate bookings and handle inquiries.
And yet, this feature is notoriously absent from many native TMC apps. The survey also highlighted other potential AI and smart applications that could vastly transform business travel and drive efficiencies, as is the case with automated data cleansing, advanced reporting, expense report auditing, and personalized search results.
What This Means For TMCs And Corporate Travel Providers
The main takeaway is the vital role software technology is set to have in the corporate travel industry over the next 5 years. And yet, many TMCs are still falling short of the mark and failing to provide solutions that harness the enormous potential of business travel technology
The GBTA survey reported that technology is the top pain point for more than 40% of travel managers, but this doesn’t have to be your reality.
Advanced travel software solutions like TripScape by Mantic Point enable TMCs and corporates to leverage the power of mobile technology and put it at the center of business travel.
Our solutions rely on flawless automation and integration with global GDS for a consistent and reliable experience, more control and personalization over traveler information, and the highest standards of communication.
Find Out More
For more information about TripScape and how it can benefit your travel management strategy, please call +44 113 394 4564, or click here to send us a message.
Image Source: Canva
