Talk of transforming travel programs began long before the previews of the new "Transformers" sequel began playing in movie theaters. But with continued downward pressures on travel budgets, as well as corporate and travel supplier revenues, expect the buzz on travel management transformations to intensify long after the movie release this month.
Arrival of a new travel manager initially prompted Cisco Systems to design the transformation of its leading travel management program. The economic downturn prompted the transformation of the transformation, as you can read in the Cover Story.
At IBM, the transformation of procurement began nearly two decades ago (just after the original 1986 animated movie debut). That transformation not only helped IBM survive the dire economics at that time, but also find a new revenue stream servicing companies that want to benefit from its lessons learned, as you will read in Profile.
Agilent Technologies, in a Case Study, details more of a follow-the-leader conversion than a transformation, as employees adhered to travel practices and vendor selection in alignment with the boss.
In our Feature, we delve into the opportunities to transform your industry knowledge-or maybe just the designation after your name-with some of the growing number of certificate programs and industry certifications. Some entail coursework and projects; others test and validate proficiency in a specific subject.
Rarely do they mention the word transform, but hotels nonetheless are trying to walk a fine line as they curtail expenses without irritating guests. How are they doing? Check out our new Supply Chaindepartment, where this month we focus on guest satisfaction.
In this issue's Perspective, Hudson Crossing partner Tom Botts advises corporate travel buyers to pay careful attention to negotiations between airlines and global distribution system providers.
Elsewhere in the issue, meetings experts contemplate a massive transformation-to "real-time"-in the real-time booking of meetings ( Technology). And learn why "now" may be the ideal time to transform your company's management of meetings in Meetings Perspective.