Key Trends Shaping the Future of Business Travel
Sustainability Matters
Businesses and travelers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of travel. Some companies are implementing sustainability programs that encourage employees to minimize trips when possible, choose eco-friendly transportation options like trains over planes, and opt for video conferencing instead of in-person meetings when practical. These kinds of initiatives are likely to grow in the coming years.
Health and Safety Concerns
In a post-pandemic world, health and safety will be a top priority for business travel. Enhanced sanitation practices, flexible cancellation policies, and on-site medical services may become more common. Some companies may require employees to get vaccinated before traveling for work. Masks and social distancing are also likely to remain in place for the foreseeable future.
Virtual and Hybrid Events
While in-person business travel will return in some form, virtual and hybrid events are here to stay. Combining online and in-person elements provides flexibility and allows more people to participate. This trend will continue to shape how companies approach meetings, conferences, training sessions, and other events that traditionally require travel.
Personalized Experiences
As business travel resumes, providing personalized experiences will be key to meeting the needs of today's travelers. Services like personalized itineraries, diet/allergy accommodations, and options to earn/redeem loyalty points can make the experience feel tailored to the individual. Companies that can provide some unique, exciting things to do in Rotterdam, for instance, will be always at the forefront in comparison with agencies offering only Amsterdam bus tours.
Companies that prioritize traveler preferences and go the extra mile to anticipate needs will build brand loyalty.
Streamlined Booking Processes
Travel managers and booking tools will focus on simplifying the booking process using technology like virtual payments, automated expense reporting, and mobile apps. Integrated tools that provide a seamless experience across the entire travel lifecycle - from booking to reimbursement - will be highly valued. Reducing friction in the process benefits both companies and travelers.
Emerging Technologies and Innovations for Business Travelers
Artificial Intelligence and Automation
Artificial intelligence (Al) and automation are transforming business travel. Al-powered chatbots can handle simple travel booking requests and questions. Al is improving security screening at airports by detecting suspicious items in baggage. Self-driving vehicles could eliminate the need for taxis and rental cars. Al and automation will make the business travel experience more efficient, convenient, and personalized.
Virtual and Augmented Reality
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are emerging technologies that provide an immersive digital experience. VR headsets can transport business travelers to virtual meetings, events, and destinations from anywhere. AR smart glasses overlay digital information onto the real world. Travelers could see reviews, recommendations, and directions displayed in their field of view. VR and AR will enable business travelers to save time, reduce costs, and enhance productivity.
Biometrics
Biometric technologies like facial recognition are enhancing security and convenience for business travelers. Airlines and airports are testing biometric boarding where travelers can board planes using just their face as identification. Hotels are piloting biometric check-in so guests can use their faces instead of a keycard to access their rooms. Biometrics provides a seamless travel experience while strengthening security and reducing fraud. However, privacy concerns exist around the collection and storage of biometric data. Regulations and consumer education on data use and privacy rights will be important.
Preparing for the Future: Tips for Companies and Business Travelers
Plan for Seamless Experiences
As business travel continues its comeback, companies should focus on streamlining the experience for travelers. Advanced technologies like biometrics, artificial intelligence, and virtual payments are making it easier for people to get from point A to point B. Companies that implement these types of solutions will make travel less stressful for employees.
Embrace Sustainable Travel
The future of business travel is sustainable and eco-friendly. Hospitality operators are now under real pressure from the ecology and consumers to meet meaningful sustainability goals. Many travelers want to reduce their carbon footprint, so companies should look for ways to offset travel emissions. Offering incentives for employees to choose more sustainable modes of transport or stay in environmentally-friendly hotels are two options. Providing resources for employees to travel efficiently and make eco-friendly choices will resonate with people concerned about the environment.
To sum up, as companies evaluate the necessity of business trips in a post-pandemic world, practices like virtual meetings and remote work arrangements will likely become more normalized. The business travel industry will need to adapt to this changing landscape, finding new ways to demonstrate value and make the experience of business trips worthwhile when they do happen.
This post was contributed by a guest author. Photo credit: dupe