IT Advances Replace Need for Work Travel

As every company tries to cut costs to boost profits, the idea of reducing travel expenses as well as office space needs by the use of technology advances has opened most business owner's eyes to the potential of technology supporting remote offices.With video conferencing and mobile communication growing in popularity in the work place, one in three business executives have found that technology has limited the demand for work related travel. In a recent study by the Barclaycard Business Travel, 40% of business travelers that were polled found that they had traveled less than they did in previous years thanks to technology related advances.

While technology has provided the ability for companies to support remote locations, the study also showed that four out of five people preferred face to face meetings with their fellow employees instead of video conferencing. As the devices and tools used to support remote employees are fairly new and always advancing, many business travelers are hoping the idea gains more support as it will save their time and money.

Barclaycards survey also showed that one fourth of business travelers claimed their health was suffering related to business travel. In addition to health, many companies face high turnover in situations where the employee is required to travel and be away from their family for prolonged periods of time. Supporting the idea that technology will reduce travel as well, the International Air Transport Association released a report reflecting a sharp drop in sales of business class tickets. The drop of 3.9% is the lowest the company has seen since March of 2003.

As the business place becomes more global and the borders less defined, more and more business will find themselves having employees or contractors working in a distant locations. With fuel prices on a constant rise, the cost tied to travel has started to take up large percentage of operational expenses. Remote employees can complete the same work load without costing the company any extra. When an employee works remotely, they also reduce operational expenses by no longer needing a cube, electricity, internet lines, phones and other expenses tied to the daily workforce.

With all of the benefits available, overtime, it will not be a surprise to see more and more industries turning to technology to provide inexpensive and effective solutions for remote employees to help reduce the need for business travel.