SBTs save corporates 7%
New research by the Institute of Travel and Meetings (ITM) suggests the use of technology is bringing savings to corporates.
The Institute said a survey of members in the UK and Ireland showed that the use of self booking tools (SBTs) achieved "proven savings" on average of 7%.
The survey, which looked at the success of technology in driving savings and efficiencies, found that 70% of respondents used SBTs.
Just under two thirds (58%) used expense management tools while 52% had technology for traveler tracking.
A third (33%) said they were planning to bring in mobile traveller updates while 25% were aiming to introduce a meetings booking tool in the near future.
But the survey also found that only "minimal" 8% of respondents used social networking tools as part of their travel and meetings programme.
Paul Tilstone, ITM's ceo, said: "The results suggest that the years of building technology solutions have paid off.
"From front to back end, technology is now an integral part of any transient business travel programme.
"The indications are that the same will occur to the meetings and events sector in due course and that the emphasis for those managing mature travel technology programmes will move to mobile traveller solutions."
Colin Goldney, managing director of ITM's research partner, Argate, added: "The plethora of technology solutions allows corporations for the first time to really build innovative and tailored solutions.
"But in a highly complex and fast changing market, it's difficult to know which technology types will deliver ongoing efficiencies and what the true service and saving abilities are.
"It appears that a much bigger time and financial commitment is required by those managing programmes for technology to deliver to expectation."
www.itm.org.uk