eyefortravel - Travel Distribution India '06

Le Passage to India focuses on integrating technology as strategy for growth

ETW Staff

Technology is rapidly changing the dynamics of the way business is conducted in the travel industry. It has facilitated easy accessibility to customers worldwide via any mode of communication - mobiles, kiosks, Web, interactive TV, hand held devices, SMS, call center with toll free worldwide access, travel shops, which are one point of sale for all travel services, etc. The online "Mantra" is the in thing for travel business and Le Passage to India has been focusing on this aspect in a big way.

"At Le Passage we feel that technology is the future. Apart from people who are the key strength of any organisation, technology will surely differentiate us in the market. TI Infotech is the technology arm of Le Passage to India," stated Arjun Sharma, MD, Le Passage to India. According to Sharma, they are in the process of developing and integrating various applications and solutions for all their business functions like inbound and charters business (Le Passage and Go India), outbound and domestic (Select Vacations). The company is also looking at applications for any other upcoming travel related business, which the group may venture into in the future.

Gulam Naqshband, chairman Emeritus, Le Passage to India is of the opinion that technology will change the face of travel in the future and travel portals will play a significant role in meeting the needs of travellers. However, he felt that for long distance travellers, the portals will act more as information vehicles and the leisure traveller will still go to the travel agent for face to face interaction. "The company will soon launch its new business application, which will further integrate its B2B, B2C, B2D and B2E customers. So be it back office operations or a cyber traveller or a mobile user, it will try and provide easy accessibility to all. The company has also developed a new software called, 'Travel Assist," informed Naqshband.

The company's strategy for growth is extensive use of technology and aggressive marketing abroad, besides covering all source markets extensively by visiting the foreign tour operators and participating in all major international and national travel marts. "In order to enhance business through technology apart from embracing new technologies, the company will try and promote the usage of the solutions, which we will provide to our agents and suppliers worldwide. Going online to get more business, implement best practices in all areas of business using technological solutions and ensure quality delivery of services to our customers. This will be done both by online and offline mediums of promotions," stated Naqshband.