The solution
The biggest cost saving was achieved by changing the operational structure – closing the implant at Swindon. Fortunately, on this occasion, it was possible to secure positions for all the individuals within the CWT network. More than half the team now work at home, continuing to serve the energy group’s travellers for complex fares that are not eligible for online booking – retaining their expertise and client knowledge. In addition, npower decided to change its GDS to Amadeus to align with its existing OBT, cytric, so the remaining ‘virtual’ agents were trained on the new system.
Online adoption was driven by the mandate and clear, consistent messaging. CWT shared information about best practice and other client successes, and CWT Programme Messenger was used throughout the campaign to deliver targeted notifications. CWT agents were empowered to pushback if travellers called them to make a booking that could be made online.
Even though the OBT hadn’t changed, a training video was created and refresher training offered to any travellers or bookers who needed them.