Accessibility is an obstacle to travel for some 1.3 billion people globally who have a disability. Photo Credit: Adobe stock/alisaaa
American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) has announced that
IBM is the launch customer for its new global accessibility solution
for business travellers. This inaugural end-to-end accessibility
solution supports travellers with visible and invisible disabilities on
every stage of their journey. This includes onboarding, booking, trip
disruption and traveller preferences, through a framework that combines
service-based solutions, advocacy and technology.
Accessibility is an obstacle to travel for some 1.3 billion people
globally who have a disability. Recent research conducted by Amex GBT
and Harvard Business Review Analytic Services found that business travel
continues to play a key role in corporate growth and scalability. In
the survey, 84% of respondents agreed their organisations recognised
tangible business value from in-person meetings with clients, customers
and prospects. Hence, to achieve an inclusive workplace, employees
should be supported when traveling for work.
Andrew Crawley, president, Amex GBT: “Amex GBT and IBM have a
likeminded approach to travel accessibility. We are committed to an open
environment that allows everyone to travel and succeed, so we were
pleased when IBM asked us how we could help its community feel more
comfortable when they book and travel. Our accessibility solution opens
opportunities for many people who previously felt uncomfortable about
getting on a plane or knowing they have the right accommodation. They
now know we have their backs and can support them regardless of whether
their disability is visible or invisible.”
The three key pillars for more inclusive travel:
· Services: includes the TRSA (Travelers Requiring Specialty
Assistance) desk, which provides access to a specialist team of travel
counsellors trained to understand and support accessibility needs. The
platform also captures specialised traveller requirements for those
willing to share their data. The solution opens a channel for those with
disabilities who require assistance in booking or managing travel.
· Technology: integrating accessibility-related solutions into booking and travel management experiences.
· Advocacy: IBM can identify industry partnerships to promote
all travellers’ needs and those of the wider travel industry.
Prashanth Kumar, director, global travel and expense, IBM: “We
champion people with diverse abilities and the value they bring to the
workplace. This has been an integral part of our company culture in
creating a more diverse workforce, enabling inclusivity and advocating
for equity, both inside and outside IBM. The support of Amex GBT will
help us reinforce our DE&I commitments and, most importantly,
provide increased assistance to employees with diverse abilities when
they travel for business.”