Talk to an Inntel expert
On 10th October, we proudly hosted the much-anticipated #InntelSolved conference, our first since 2019, making this year’s event particularly special. Whether you joined us or couldn’t make it, we wanted to take a moment to share some of our favourite moments and insights from the day. It was a fantastic opportunity to discuss the future of business travel, meetings and event tech innovation, as well as insights on neurodiversity and inclusivity plus another subject close to our hearts: sustainability and the B Corp movement.
Coincidentally, the conference was held on World Mental Health Day 2024. This year’s theme set by the World Federation of Mental Health was workplace mental health. It is something we are passionate about, so it’s no surprise that our programme also featured several sessions centred on managing stress and overcoming challenges at work. This included the opening keynote about cultivating resilience from prominent development and inclusion coach Rabbi Laura Janner-Klausner, who also happens to be one of Inntel’s esteemed Non-Executive Directors. And, the revered Communication Practitioner Sarah Blumenau delivered powerful mind-body exercises to help us master the art of speaking with presence and delivering impactful messages.
The day was jam-packed with insightful sessions and discussions. Below, we’ve rounded up the key takeaways.
Key Takeaways from #InntelSolved
Rabbi Laura Janner-Klausner delivered an inspiring opening keynote on the theme of resilience, drawing on personal experiences. She emphasised the importance of resilience when things go wrong and encouraged a more measured response to challenges by quantifying their severity. Her advice to “Hunt the good” serves as a reminder to focus on positives, even in tough situations. And, reminding us to question, and “Is what you’re doing helping or harming you?” resonated with many.
Instant Book Technology Unveiled
Anna Snoep, our Director of Operations and ESG, took attendees on a journey through the evolution of meetings technology – from the days of faxes and phones to today’s innovations. A major highlight was the unveiling of Inntel’s Instant Book technology, which is designed to streamline the booking process for small meetings. Following a phased rollout, Instant Book will fully launch in early 2025, and it was met with enthusiastic feedback from attendees eager to experience this next-generation tool.
AI in Business Travel
A thought-provoking panel discussion, led by Inntel NED Julian Walker, explored the role of AI in business travel technology. Joined by Leigh Cowlishaw (Black Box Partnerships), Daniel Price (CEO and Co-Founder of Jyrney), and Alex Webber (Inntel’s IT Director), the panel discussed how AI is being used to improve user experience and enhance sustainability.
One exciting talking point was the use of AI to predict CO2 emissions from taxis and other modes of ground transport, a feature highlighted by Daniel Price from Jyrney.
“It’s all about user experience”
This was one of the key themes from our discussions on AI and technology. Size and speed may matter, but our IT team’s focus is always on enhancing the user’s experience.
Alex Webber shared how Inntel is leveraging AI to process thousands of hotel descriptions from GDS content, improving the quality of information on our OBT LOGiC. And, how we’re providing near real-time data on travel spend and carbon emissions through Power BI.
While AI brings many benefits, Alex reminded us that technology, including chatbots, can enhance efficiency, yet they are no substitute for human interaction. He also explained the value of APIs in facilitating app integration, making business travel smoother and more efficient.
Effective Communication Skills
Speaking of human interaction, communication expert Sarah Blumenau shared her unique approach to building presence. Her ‘outside in’ and ‘inside out’ techniques showed how focusing on what the audience needs can help ensure messages land effectively. Sarah also shared exercises to help develop a confident presence, stressing the importance of being truly present in each interaction.
Neurodiversity and Inclusion
As neurodivergent individual and ambassador for the charity ADHD UK, Sarah also made a powerful contribution to the DE&I panel, along with Neurodiversity in Business Ambassador and Inntel team member Tiffany Casson, Anthea Thomas of EventWell and moderator Ian Jones from temoji. The panel highlighted that around 20% of the population is thought to be neurodivergent, making it crucial to involve neurodivergent perspectives in event planning. A key message was to avoid tokenism – summed up in Anthea’s powerful statement: “Don’t do things for us without us.”
Creating a Supportive Work Culture
Sian Sayward, Inntel’s Director of People, Partnerships, and Strategic Projects, spoke about fostering a supportive and cohesive work culture at Inntel, particularly across our diverse age range of staff, from 17 to over 70. She shared insights on how we prioritise inclusivity and retention by focusing on staff wellbeing and development.
Sustainability and the B Corp Journey
Our CEO Douglas O’Neill announced that Inntel’s office is being fitted with 100 solar panels, which will provide 75% of our energy needs. This reflects our ongoing commitment to sustainability, a theme that was explored further in a panel discussion with B Corp champions Matt Letley (Impact for Good), Adam Huttly (Red Inc), David Connell (Exclusive Collection), and our very own Anna Snoep. The panel shared valuable insights into the B Corp certification process and the growing movement for businesses to act as a force for good.