Travelport Goes Live in Rome with ‘New Normal in Travel Tech’
By Maria Paravantes in Rome
There’s no doubt about it, travel is being re-invented thanks to the advent of the so-called “disruptive technologies” which have changed the way travel is sold, purchased, managed and experienced. The challenges, the opportunities and the trends come into the spotlight this week as Travelport LIVE 2018 kicks off in Rome today.
Organized by UK-based digital travel solutions provider Travelport under the theme “Embracing the New Normal in Travel Tech”, the event running through to October 18 at Rome’s Radisson Blu Hotel, will shed light on everything from how AI, robotics, and automation are transforming traditional business models to ways smart companies can leverage big data and analytics to deliver more dynamic and personalized products.
Over 150 experts and leaders from OTAs, TMCs, leisure agencies, airlines and hotels as well as key industry stakeholders are in Rome, this week, to discuss which new technologies are shaping the travel experience as well as ways to keep abreast of the ever evolving tech-in-travel landscape.
Key issues to be addressed on Wednesday, include IATA’s (International Air Transport Association) new distribution capability (NDC) and its impact on the distribution landscape; new technologies and the online travel evolution; travel solutions for airlines and agencies; utilizing data to enhance the travel experience; and ways to digitally support and promote tailor-made travel products.
Besides a series of panel discussions and networking opportunities, parallel events will feature major influencers and industry insiders including Bibop Gresta from Hyperloop Transportation Technologies, IBM’s Rashik Parmar, and Deloitte’s Graham Pickett, who will share their insight on how disruptive technologies are changing the way travelers engage with companies.
The three-day Travelport LIVE 2018 will also include an Innovation Showcase where delegates will have the chance to experience first-hand the latest in Travelport technology in collaboration with partners IBM, Microsoft, and TATA Consultations Services.
The event will be followed by a gala dinner on Wednesday evening.