Travel program consolidation is a key objective for travel managers. Successful program consolidation results in cost savings, strong vendor relationships, greater travel policy compliance, and, often, streamlined program administration.

You can achieve consolidation by reviewing the various components of the program, evaluating and choosing the best options for each component, then implementing the practices throughout your company. The four most common components organizations consolidate include:

• Supplier Data
• Travel Policy
• Supplier Agreements
• Travel Management Company

In order for global consolidation to be successful, the program requires support from the uppermost levels of an organization. First, identify the strategy and reasoning for consolidation—usually garnered from the list above. Next, secure an executive sponsor to promote program changes. Then develop a cross-functional team that is equipped to lead the process.  Lastly, gain support form travel champions in the countries and regions where business is being conducted.

There are three common configurations for globalizing a travel program:

One size fits all/One solution

• This is a single contract with one global TMC, GDS and OBT
• Commonly serviced through regional call centers

Best in region

• Various points of global accountability based on region
• This includes multiple contracts, TMCs, GDS and online booking tools

Lead TMC/Partner network

• Contracting with a network of TMC partners that operates through a lead TMC partner

Through our experienced client solution managers, Fox World Travel guides clients through the global consolidation process.  We assist you in selecting the program that achieves successful consolidation for your organization.