Previously, our blog discussed the research we did to discover how to make business travel a whole lot less troublesome. We can now reveal the role that technology plays in improving the business travel experience.
According to the online research, technology (like smartphones, apps and laptops) has simplified and sped up the travel experience, and has given business travellers more peace of mind while on the road. In fact 83% of those using mobile apps say it has improved their business travel experience.
What do you take with you when you travel?
Your passport, of course, and your ticket (at least, that used to be the case). But now, thanks to strides into technology, 40% of those surveyed always, often and occasionally use airline apps to check-in and board their planes – making printed tickets almost a thing of the past. And people certainly aren't forgetting to take along their other technological carry-ons: 58% said their smartphone was one of their top three devices while travelling; and 48% said it was their laptop. However, 28% like to take their book, so don't forget to pack that too.
What types of apps are people using?
If you're using a smartphone, having the right app can make a huge difference. Map apps are the most popular - 90% of those surveyed use them always, often or occasionally whilst travelling for business. Train travel apps are the second most common (by 79%), followed by tube (underground) apps used by 64% and social networking apps (used by 60% of those surveyed). Business travellers also use hotel, airport, airline and ground transportation apps; and 53% say they use review sites always, often or occasionally. Interestingly, with the exception of airline apps, people are not reporting a wide use of business travel apps. A mere 16% of those surveyed use apps to track expenses, and only 20% manage their itineraries using apps like TripIt.
What do you mean people don’t use business travel apps?
Surprisingly, 39% of business travellers are not using any business travel apps at all. Yet, the benefits of apps are clear for those who are using apps, and using the right apps: if you use them you will know: they are the ones who are more organised and better connected. Are you one of the 61% who know what it's like to be able to book your travel on the fly, find a hotel at the touch of a button, and know where and when you're heading? If not, now is a good time to think about using a business app that can make a huge positive difference in your business travel experience.
Find out more about the research
Read the full press release, download the infographic, or see the executive summary.
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 1,024 adults who travel for business via air or rail. Fieldwork was undertaken between 23rd - 25th July 2012. The survey was carried out online.
Do you have a recommendation for a business travel app that makes a difference for you? Share it in the comments below.The post Faster, Faster! It’s Official: Technology Speeds up Business Travel appeared first on Concur Blog.
