With so many options and online alternatives these days, it’s easy to think that Travel Management Companies (TMCs) could become a thing of the past.

The perception that online equals cheaper has brought big competition to TMCs and they need to show real value to their clients, now more than ever.

To address this, global industry leaders in travel and technology recently teamed up in Chiang Mai, Thailand, to discuss change in the digital era, innovation and cutting-edge technology for the Amadeus Asia Pacific Managed Travel 3.0 conference. The event attracted around 75 attendees from major TMC’s, leisure agencies, airlines, payment solutions, hotel specialists, travel procurement and industry technology experts.

QBT’s Online Channel Manager, Sean Dean, was there to discuss competition with online agencies and best practice to optimise the traveller experience.

“The ‘less is more’ approach is key to online success in travel management. We need to keep our solutions simple and easy to use to compete with online, pure play agencies”, Sean said.

“We have an opportunity to use data and systems in brave new ways to offer something great to our customers.”

A major talking point was the value of booking through a TMC. There’s no denying you can find cheap fares online. BUT will you get duty of care services for your travellers, the option to change a booking, enhanced reporting or expense management all via mobile?!

Probably not.

Sean says TMCs can stay ahead of the game by creating a simple and effective digital experience.

“We can provide all the right tools at the right stage of the customer’s trip”.

So, are TMCs a dying breed? Absolutely not!

It’s all about helping the customer at EVERY stage of their trip:

1. planning and inspiration
2. booking and approval
3. On trip at airport, hotel, car, meals, or leisure activities.
4. Post trip reconciliation and feedback opportunities

One of the key aspects is creating a simple but effective digital experience that provides all the right tools to customers in one place.

The knowledge and data we can obtain on our customers’ requirements and behaviours is crucial to a building a tailored but personalised experience with a TMC.