Change Proposal: Travel

The project team reviewing travel services at UMass asked two main questions: is the University providing the right level of service to clients? Is the University using the volume of travel expenditures to full economic advantage?

The team found that the University has made several improvements to travel services in recent years, including the use of the VISA card and the implementation of the Travel Reimbursement Incentive Program (TRIP). While the University has relationships with two designated travel agencies, only 19% of total travel expenditures were made through those agencies in 1997-98. Currently, UMass travelers work with a large number of different travel agencies and service providers.

Given the wide array of agencies used by UMass travelers-a large majority of whom is faculty-the team recommended that the University refrain from mandating the use of a single travel service. Instead, the team recommended implementing an integrated travel program with incentives for voluntary participation. Many organizations with large travel expenses achieve savings in travel costs by coordinating travel arrangements through an internal department. At UMass, the program would involve coordination of services already in place in order to improve the quality of those services and improve administrative efficiency.

Savings to the University are also expected through volume discounts with air carriers. The savings could be passed on to travelers and result in more travel per dollar spent. The program would require the addition of a Travel Services Manager to coordinate services and pursue cost-saving measures.

If you wish to comment on this proposal, please send e-mail to sfe@chancellor.umass.edu

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