Earlier this month, we penned an article asking you guys what needs to be done in reaction to the rising presence of technology in the travel industry.
You can read all about our anxieties over robotic domination and what it means for travel here.
Ok, so it wasn’t really about robotic domination, we just really love cute robot gifs.
The article was actually about tech partnerships and the rise of OTAs.
But we digress.
Barry Mayo of Travel Managers got in touch with us to share his thoughts on technology in the travel industry, and we liked what he had to say so much we decided to catch up with him to find out more.
Mayo believes that technology is a very important part of any travel operation, regardless of whether it’s an OTA or an experienced travel consultant.
“I don’t think technology is the threat it’s often presented to be,” he said.
“Technology speeds up processing and makes business more productive.”
“It makes it easier for consultants to assist consumers and we should embrace it.”
Much like Flight Centre’s partnership with Sabre, TravelManagers has teamed up with Amadeus to deliver similar benefits, allowing the company’s personal travel managers (PTMs) access to a vast array of product globally.
“Whilst it is true that virtual travel agents and other automated booking systems give prospective travellers fast and direct access to travel product, our partnership with Amadeus provides our PTMs with 484 bookable airlines, 44 car rental companies and well over two million hotel shopping options,” he said.
Mayo told us this wealth of choice comes with one important benefit that automated booking systems simply can’t emulate, no matter how sophisticated their data mining mechanisms may be: that of personal expertise.
“Often the most memorable holiday experiences come from chance comments in the course of a consultation between PTM and, with long-standing clients, the knowledge of each client’s individual interests and preferences,” Mayo said.
For Mayo, keeping up with the latest technology is crucial for agents in the fight to stay ahead of OTAs.
“We’re constantly reviewing the systems we use and updating them,” he said.
“Our use of technology is constantly enhanced as a result of out PTMs giving us feedback on how we can better use the tech to our advantage.”
Overall, Mayo is optimistic about technological advancements in the industry.
“Advances in technology within the travel industry are inevitable,” he said.
“We believe TravelManagers strength lies in assisting our PTMs, with their average of 20 plus years travel experience, to harness those advances and pair them with their skills and expertise.”
“Ultimately that means better choice, better service and a better travel experience for travellers.”
