2014 Travel Trends to Watch: Creative Cost Cutting, Improving Traveler Experience

businessman using self help check in machine at airport Corporate travel managers place a high value on finding new and innovative ways to trim travel costs. But ensuring a great experience for traveling employees is also high on their priority list, according to Carlson Wagonlit Travel’s (CWT’s) sixth annual Travel Management Priorities report.

Ranking priorities

CWT surveyed 970 travel managers worldwide and found that 70% rank “Find innovative ways to generate savings” as their number-one priority for 2014. Additional priorities in the top-seven list for travel managers include

drive growth in online adoption (55%),
optimize end-to-end travel processes (54%),
further promote the travel program (54%),
redesign the travel policy (42%),
develop a mobile strategy (37%), and
reinforce corporate social responsibility (16%).

In the survey, three major themes emerged: stronger focus on travelers, greater collaboration, and increasingly powerful data. An integral part of improving the traveler experience involves technology: mobile apps, social media, and even Big Data. Working together, these technologies can enhance traveler experience by facilitating access to necessary information and keeping travelers in the know about changes to their travel plans.

Bottom line for travelers

What do travel managers’ priorities mean for business travelers in 2014? Look for the travel industry to help companies work toward meeting travel managers’ goals. For example, Creative Lodging Solutions offers consolidated billing and cost-control features that streamline paperwork and help travel managers keep travel costs in check.

Travelers and travel managers will also see more innovative options available in areas such as expense management and booking — for example, enhanced mobile applications that have more functionality and options for employees who are on the road. The strong focus on improving traveler experience in 2014 will likely spur the introduction of more resources for travelers while helping travel managers continue to find and implement ways to trim costs.

[cta]No matter what the travel market does, you can ensure your rates stay within your budget! Creative Lodging Solutions will help you save time and money by pre-negotiating rates ahead of time. Contact CLS at 888-852-5100 or by email to learn more about how to manage all your lodging needs.[/cta]