InformationWeek: The Business Value of Technology

The vendor's Biztravel@mycompany service includes development and customization of a Web site, where managers can set parameters and guidelines for travel and expenses. When employees book their travel through the system, it can block bookings at pricey four-star hotels and flag high-priced airline tickets, for example.

Within two years, more than 40% of travel will be booked via the Internet, according to a recent study by consulting firm Gomez Advisors. "There are a lot of savings to be had by businesses that take advantage of Web-based travel procurement services like this," says Krista Pappas, director of travel at Gomez Advisors.

Companies that use Biztravel@mycompany won't be charged booking fees, but varying fees are charged for customer services via telephone. Biztravel.com, a subsidiary of travel-management company Rosenbluth Interactive, also charges fees to airlines and other suppliers.

Each custom site will include a feature called FareGuard, which searches for the lowest fares based on time of departure. A feature called bizReservations provides travel recommendations based on user preferences.

Telephony product and service provider Octave Communications Inc. is an early user of Biztravel@mycompany. Rob Scott, co-founder and chairman at Octave, says the service has saved his Internet startup considerable money. A previous online travel service he used didn't offer the guidelines or management features he finds valuable with Biztravel@mycompany. Of his previous service, Scott says, "Employees would book the most expensive flights and accommodations."