Business Travel Deals....Is the Internet Really the Best Solution?
Business travelers often search a wide variety of websites to seek the lowest airfares and hotel rates possible, in an effort to spend company funds wisely and get to the best deals. The perception is that the Internet is the place to go for the lowest fares and best prices for all travel. But contrary to popular belief, this is not always the case. Below are some common misconceptions about booking travel on the internet:
It's Cheaper
Not true. Recently our client partner, a multi national Fortune 500 company wanted to test this theory. They successfully debunked this perception by having TOPAZ (www.etopaz.com), a recognized leader in providing unbiased airfare audits and internet audits for private and publicly held companies, conduct a third party audit on all airfares booked thought Travizon.
The Topaz audit revealed corporate managed online booking tool and Travizon agents offered lower fares in the majority of domestic and international tickets. Please see the button below for a link to download the Topaz Audit Case Study.
No Fees
The reality is fees are assessed and many internet sites do not show full pricing with fees, taxes and surcharges until the transaction is fully completed. Often times when the end user is only looking at base rate, an accurate "fare" comparison cannot be made. Their are other unforeseen cost implications from booking on the internet, like the application of unused non-refundable tickets and inability to manage and meet contract goals with preferred suppliers, which may result in the loss of contracts as well as jeopardize future negotiations.
It's Flexible
On average, 10% of corporate travelers change their minds 24-48 hours after making a reservation. In fact, the average business traveler makes four changes to every itinerary and cancels one out of every two trips. Once a traveler confirms the ticket via the Internet, there is limited to no flexibility on changes.
It's Quick
Did you know the average traveler spends a full 40 minutes researching flight options through multiple Internet sites, compared with an average of only 15 minutes spent while on the phone with an agent or using a corporate online booking tool, with travel policy and company contracted suppliers.
