BLOG – CONSIDERING A NEW TRAVEL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM? 8 THINGS TO THINK ABOUT

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It’s entirely possible that the travel management solution you choose will power your business for the next 5, 10 maybe even 20 years. With that in mind, it’s extremely important to perform you due diligence as a buyer and make the right decision. Ultimately, every travel provider wants a system that can help them to grow their business. If each of the 8 factors listed below are properly considered before a choice is made, you’re likely to be in good shape.

SUPPORT
What is the support offering of the technology provider? Not only in the initial phases, but also when you’re up and running is there reliable product expertise available that you can rely on? Look for support that’s going to available during your working day at the very least – 24/7 support is always best.

 

DEPTH OF FEATURES
How rich is the software you’re considering in terms of the features it offers? Although it may have all the features you require right now, it could be that you’ll require additional features in the future.

 

REFERENCES
If the technology isn’t a new one, find out which travel companies similar to your own are using it and how. If you can, speak to their teams to learn about their experiences with it. 

 

TRAINING
In order for you to get the most out of a new travel management system, it’s essential that your technology provider offers a dedicated training program and that you invest in it. Face to face training should always be sought where possible.

 

ADD-ONS/MODULES
Does the product offer a range of add-ons and do they meet your requirements both currently and in for the future? Though some technology providers consistently build new functionality based on specific customer requirements, it’s obviously more convenient if said functionality is already available.

 

PRODUCT ROAD MAP
What new features, UI changes or modules are currently being developed or are scheduled for development by the technology provider?  A look at their road map is essential to give you an idea of how good or bad your quote is in terms of value. A system may seem pricey but it may also be set to improve significantly in the near future.

 

SUPPLIER CONNECTIONS
Your technology should have solid pre-existing connections to a wide range of travel suppliers and their content. And, if a supplier of your choice isn’t listed, ensure that they can be added in the near future.

 

PRICING
Obviously pricing and your budget are always going to be concerns, and quite rightly so. However, purchasing a new travel management system is a critical business and picking a system purely based on price will almost certainly come back to haunt you in the future. Look for a system that delivers value based on its features, evolution road map, support and future-proofness. Choose a system that will not only grow with your business but also help your business to grow.

 

To talk to a member of our team about Open Destinations’ travel management systems Travel Builder and Travel Studio, send an email to [email protected].