4 reasons to adopt multi-modal travel
- 03 November 2023
In the fast-paced world of business, time is money, and efficiency is key. As professionals, we are constantly on the move, shuttling between meetings, conferences, and client visits. The demand for seamless travel experiences that save time, reduce stress, and promote sustainability is higher than ever before, thanks to new legislation that’s being introduced across the globe. This is where multi-modal travel comes into play.
In this article, we'll explore the concept of multi-modal travel and its countless benefits for companies that cater to business travellers, including enhancing the customer experience, promoting sustainable travel, increasing ease-of-use, and providing unmatched flexibility. But first, what does Multi-modal travel entail?
Multi-modal travel, also known as multi-modal transportation or intermodal transportation, refers to the use of multiple modes of transport within a single journey or trip. Instead of relying on a single mode of transport like a car, bus, train, or airplane, Multi-modal travel involves seamlessly combining and switching between different transportation options to reach a destination.
Here are some examples of transportation modes that can be part of a multi-modal journey:
- Walking or Bicycling: These are often used as the first and last legs of a journey, for short distances, or to reach public transportation hubs.
- Public Transportation: This includes buses, trams, subways, commuter trains, and ferries, which are commonly used in urban areas.
- Ridesharing and Taxis: Services like Uber and Lyft offer on-demand rides, often serving as a complement to public transportation.
- Car Rentals: Some travellers may choose to rent a car for part of their journey, especially if they need more flexibility or plan to explore areas not easily accessible by public transport.
- Moped and Scooter Rentals and Sharing: In some urban areas, moped and scooter rental services are available, providing travelers with a convenient and efficient way to cover short distances or bridge gaps in their multi-modal journeys.
- Bicycle Rentals and Sharing: Many cities offer bicycle rental services or bike-sharing programs, allowing travellers to use bicycles for short trips.
- Long-Distance Trains: For travel between cities or regions, long-distance trains can be a convenient and eco-friendly option.
- Flights: For longer distances, air travel may be part of a Multi-modal journey, connecting travellers between countries or continents.
Multi-modal travel is becoming increasingly popular as it offers flexibility and efficiency, reduces the environmental impact of travel, and can provide a more enjoyable and sustainable travel experience, especially in urban areas where congestion and pollution are concerns. It also aligns with the growing trend of Mobility as a Service (MaaS), which aims to provide travellers with a seamless, interconnected transportation ecosystem.
But why should your business embrace MaaS and multi-modal travel?
In today's hyper-competitive business landscape, the customer experience and employee experience are critical factors in maintaining a competitive edge. Multi-modal travel plays a crucial role in enhancing this experience by streamlining the journey for both clients and employees.
Imagine your employee on a business trip, arriving at the airport and having their preferred mode of transportation, be it a ride-sharing service, train, or even a bicycle, seamlessly integrated into their travel itinerary. This level of customisation not only saves valuable time but also creates a positive impression of your company's commitment to delivering exceptional service. The same goes for your customers – providing a hassle-free B2B solution to your customers, allows them to curate the services and customer experience they want to offer.
Multi-modal travel platforms offer real-time updates, ensuring that your travellers are always in the know about their journey, from start to finish.
Sustainability has become a central concern for businesses worldwide. Reducing carbon emissions is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage. Multi-modal travel aligns perfectly with these goals, providing an eco-friendly solution to the modern professional's mobility needs.
By optimising routes and combining various modes of transport, multi-modal travel minimises unnecessary fuel consumption and reduces carbon footprints. Taking it one step further, by providing insight into the carbon emission for each mode of transport available, you can actively encourage travellers to opt for the “greener” choice in their travel needs.
In an era where corporate social responsibility is a competitive advantage, your business can showcase its commitment to sustainability by encouraging employees and clients to choose greener travel options. This not only benefits the environment but also aligns your brand with conscientious values.
One of the primary reasons business professionals are increasingly adopting multi-modal travel is its unmatched ease-of-use. Modern multi-modal travel platforms are designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, making it simple for even the busiest executives to plan and execute their journeys seamlessly.
These platforms, XXImo's Mobility Payments Platform included, provide a one-stop solution, enabling users to book, manage, and track their entire trip from their smartphones or laptops. Ideally, the platform provides an integrated payment solution to eliminate the need for expensing and to prevent unnecessary costs when travel plans inevitably change. No more juggling between multiple apps or websites for flights, trains, taxis, or rental cars, and the different payment options they provide. The result is a stress-free travel experience, allowing professionals to focus on their core responsibilities.
In the world of business, change is the only constant. Plans can evolve at a moment's notice, and professionals need travel options that can adapt just as quickly. Multi-modal travel offers flexibility, accommodating shifting schedules and unforeseen circumstances.
Imagine a scenario where a meeting in one city ends earlier than expected, and a last-minute opportunity arises in another. With multi-modal travel, you can easily modify your travel plans on the go, seamlessly switching between transport modes to reach your destination faster. This flexibility can be a game-changer, allowing you to capitalise on unexpected opportunities or navigate potential setbacks with ease.
Multi-modal travel is revolutionising the way business professionals move from point A to B. Its ability to enhance the traveller experience, promote sustainable travel, offer ease of use, and provide unmatched flexibility makes it a must-have tool in the modern professional's arsenal.
There’s an app for that.
The key to delivering a seamless experience in Multi-modal travel is integration and coordination between all the modes of transport that are available. Ideally, providing a filtered view of the options that are available at a specific location and a specific moment in time – when and where your travellers need. Travellers may use smartphone apps, websites, or dedicated platforms to plan their journeys, book tickets, and receive real-time information about schedules and connections. This integration makes it possible for travellers to switch seamlessly between different modes of transport, reducing travel stress, and saving time and money.
As the business world becomes increasingly interconnected and conscious of its environmental impact, embracing multi-modal travel is not just a matter of convenience; it's a strategic choice that can set your organisation apart. By adopting this innovative approach, you can navigate the future of business travel with confidence, reducing stress, saving time, and contributing to a more sustainable planet – all while maintaining a competitive edge in your industry.