GSAIR 2024 : AMERICAS 12
housing . “ The trend is toward shorter stays , and while this saves companies money in the short term , there ’ s still a question of how it impacts the guest experience and productivity .”
Shifts in Mobility Policies : maintaining a top tier relocation experience
“ We ’ re seeing mobility policies shift toward more selfservice options , where assignees can choose their own accommodations through technology platforms . This reduces overhead and gives individuals more control , but it ’ s crucial to maintain a high level of service ,” Robert said .
He emphasized that while technology is playing a bigger role , the human element is still critical . “ We ’ re in a people industry , and the hospitality component is essential . When something goes wrong , you need someone you can reach out to , not just an app .”
Supporting and solving for evolving Mobility Programs
To support these evolving mobility programs , companies are increasingly turning to pre-approved , vetted suppliers that provide reliable , quality accommodations . “ By using vetted suppliers , we ensure that the products meet the necessary standards of care , even as we give assignees more flexibility ,” Robert noted .
He also pointed out that some companies are moving away from dollar-figure allowances and instead adopting point-based systems . “ Point systems give assignees more flexibility in choosing the services they need without focusing on cost alone .”
Conclusion : the future of Mobility and Business Travel
We ’ ve seen evolution versus revolution in this space with mobility and business travel more aligned than ever before . As companies seek to optimize efficiencies and provide more flexibility for their employees , the key to success lies in balancing technology with personalized service , leveraging buying power , and navigating the complex regulatory environment .
“ In the past , people would go on pre-assignment trips to look at schools and properties , but now they can do it all virtually before they even arrive . This has a huge impact on the need for corporate housing .”
Credit : Blueground