With the rise of technology, businesses now have the opportunity to revolutionise their travel processes by introducing automation and customisation into their strategies. These advancements not only improve efficiency but also provide a more tailored, seamless experience for both travel managers and employees.
In this blog, we’ll explore how incorporating travel tech into business travel programmes can lead to greater cost control, improved traveller satisfaction, and more streamlined processes for travel managers.
The role of automation in corporate travel
Automation has become a game-changer in various industries, and business travel is no exception. After all, 95% of business travellers would use AI-powered automation to support their tasks. Businesses are even considering an AI chatbot to answer questions about their travel policy.
By integrating automated systems into a corporate travel programme, businesses can significantly reduce the administrative burden placed on travel managers. Automation tools allow for tasks such as booking, expense reporting, and itinerary management to be completed without manual intervention, saving both time and effort.
One of the primary benefits of automating these tasks is the reduction in human error. Automated systems can handle complex processes with greater precision, ensuring that travel bookings are accurate, expenses are properly categorised, and compliance is maintained.
Additionally, automation can help streamline approval processes. Travel managers can set up predefined rules for travel bookings, such as budget limits or preferred suppliers, and the system will automatically enforce these policies. This ensures consistency and prevents unnecessary overspending.
Customisation: tailoring travel programmes to individual needs
While automation handles the nuts and bolts of corporate travel, customisation is where businesses can truly add value for their employees. Each traveller has different preferences and needs, and a one-size-fits-all approach no longer works in today’s business landscape.
A customised business travel programme can cater to various aspects, from preferred airlines and hotel chains to specific amenities like upgraded seating or meal preferences. Advanced travel tech platforms allow employees to input their preferences and save them in their profiles, making future bookings quicker and more personalised.
Additionally, customisation extends to the type of support provided to employees during their trips. Some travellers may prefer more independence and self-service options, while others may want additional support, such as access to a 24/7 concierge or help with itinerary changes.
Enhancing traveller experience with tech solutions
Incorporating tech solutions into business travel doesn’t just streamline processes; it enhances the overall traveller experience as well. A smooth, seamless travel experience can make a significant difference in how employees perceive their trip and their overall productivity.
For example, travel management apps and platforms can give employees easy access to their itineraries, travel updates, and even real-time information such as gate changes or flight delays. The ability to manage everything from one app also ensures that employees feel more in control, reducing stress and increasing overall satisfaction.
Some platforms also offer integration with expense management systems, allowing employees to easily submit receipts, track expenses, and ensure compliance with company policies. This level of transparency not only simplifies the process for travellers but also helps companies maintain financial oversight of their business travel expenditures.
Reducing costs through intelligent travel tech
Cost control remains one of the main priorities for businesses when it comes to corporate travel. Travel tech can provide a substantial opportunity to optimise spending and drive down costs without compromising quality or convenience.
Intelligent platforms can analyse historical data to identify trends and offer cost-saving recommendations. These systems can suggest the most cost-effective routes, suggest mid-tier hotels that still meet employee needs, or automatically apply discounts from preferred suppliers. By using data to guide decision-making, companies can improve their travel procurement strategies and find opportunities to save on recurring expenses.
For example, expense reporting. According to CapTrav’s study, Expense reports — when completed manually — have around a 19% error rate, with each error costing around $52 to fix, which is only $6 less than the value of the average expense report. This suggests that automating such a process could reduce costs and inefficiencies by up to 40%.
By incorporating automation and customisation, businesses can reduce costs associated with time-consuming administrative tasks. Travel managers no longer need to manually process bookings, approvals, and expense reports, freeing up their time for more strategic responsibilities.
The future of travel tech in corporate programmes
As the future of business travel continues to evolve, the role of travel tech will only become more significant. With the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), platforms will become even smarter at predicting traveller preferences, suggesting cost-saving opportunities, and optimising travel options.
In addition, sustainability is increasingly a focus for businesses, and tech solutions can help track and reduce carbon emissions associated with corporate travel.
Making your travel programme smarter and more efficient
Incorporating automation and customisation into business travel programmes is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity in the modern corporate world. By leveraging travel tech, businesses can optimise their travel management processes, reduce costs, enhance the traveller experience, and ultimately create a more efficient and streamlined programme.
As technology continues to evolve, the potential for building smarter, more tailored business travel solutions will only grow, offering even greater opportunities for businesses to stay ahead of the curve and meet the changing needs of their employees.
If you want to learn more about our tech stack, just scroll to the top of the page and click on ‘Technology’ to discover how we create cost efficiencies for our clients — making travel smarter and more efficient.