This post is part of the 2013 Keynote Vote for The Beat Live 2013, in Miami Sept. 30-Oct. 2.
What will you speak about?
If you read the trade presses, the business travel sector is outdated, inefficient and ripe for change. Whether the topic is "open bookings" or creating a "one size fits all" standard for data, there remain many unanswered questions as to who the "winners" and "losers" might be when it comes to managing business travel. We use details like "open-booking" as a way of challenging the status quo. My pitch centers around creating a travel process that allows for the greatest flexibility in managing bookings regardless of source. I will also share my experience in funding a travel tech accelerator and what I learned about frustrated consumer experiences that drive them to want to start travel technology businesses.
Why should the audience listen?
If you believe the media, our industry is in the midst of potential and monumental changes at all levels. However, I see the travel ecosystem evolving into a more hybrid model that leverages the strengths of a managed travel program like supplier relationships, data consolidation for travel performance and duty of care, but with the flexibility and mobility afforded by "open booking" initiatives.
How will you avoid a sales pitch?
No one ever made a lot of sales by asking, "Hey buddy, want to buy some data?" I'm confident the audience knows what we do at Cornerstone. I don't have a solution to sell that addresses the unknown.
What insight do you want The Beat readers to share in advance, to help you prepare for your presentation?
Is your decision making based around what you read or what you experience first-hand? What are your top concerns that will have the greatest impact on you and your job?
Mat Orrego is CEO of Cornerstone Information Systems