What a difference a year makes. 2016 was all about mobile, with widespread development and availability of online booking tools and apps across all devices. We are less than halfway into 2017, and artificial intelligence (AI), or intelligence exhibited by machines, has taken over as this year's "it" technology. Along with machine learning (ML), augmented reality (AI) and virtual reality (VR), it's enough to make your head spin. In fact, before we begin, a small test on tech terms… not really, but here's a short glossary of terms to help you sort your AI, ML and AR from your VR. Now that we're on the same page, let's talk about why this is relevant to you. Emerging technologies have the potential to make corporate travel easier, smarter and more insights-driven for both the business traveller and the travel manager. Business travellers are consumers, too, and they have come to expect simple, intuitive mobile technologies in all aspects of their lives. So, where does the corporate travel industry stand today? What's possible now?  And what can you, as a travel manager, expect in the next few years? You ask, we answer. We're launching a blog series that addresses these exact questions, demystifies the jargon of new technologies and lets you know how this is likely to affect you and your travellers. Here's a sneak peek at what's ahead in our Ditch the #TechSpeak blog series:

• Mobile's impact on business travel: Despite all of the talk about various forms of tech, mobile is currently one of the best tools for traveller engagement. A mobile-first strategy is critical today, and we'll share great examples and learnings on how to make sure mobile is working for you.
• Big data and business travel: There's so much data available today, especially within the travel industry. How do you sift through it all and take action to improve the experience for your travellers?
• Machine learning and natural language processing: Think you know what "personalised" means? Think again. Machine learning will build a highly personalised experience for your travellers, based on their previous travel experiences and preferences. Natural language processing will make this even easier – the traveller will simply be able to tell their app or computer what to do. That's not to say that the travel manager won't be involved – you'll need to continue to use tools to guide your travellers towards efficient in-policy decisions.
• Duty of care and technology: Emerging technology has the potential to revolutionise how we deal with travel disruption. In some cases, AI and ML, along with location services, may be able to prevent the disruption entirely. How much would your travellers love you if that was the case?
• Alternative reality with AR and VR: Augmented and virtual reality enable users to experience "alternative" realities. Think about what that means. You could give a traveller a remote tour of a couple of hotels before they decide on one, or help your travellers navigate an unfamiliar airport or transport route.

We're looking forward to exploring the technology revolution in business travel with you! Watch this space... Follow us on LinkedIn to make sure that you don't miss our latest tech posts.