Direct ATPI launches Microsoft Teams technology integration

Global business travel management company Direct ATPI has announced a two-phased roll-out plan to allow clients to view, plan and discuss business trips on Microsoft Teams. The company will integrate its profile, invoice, approval and itinerary platform with Microsoft Teams to consolidate the travel process, streamline the client experience. A small group of clients will pilot the tech integration, before it rolls out in full to all Direct ATPI clients in the autumn. Phase one of the integration allows customers to update traveller profiles, view, plan, approve and discuss business trips within one application without the need to use any other products on their browser. Phase two, which is set to launch later in the year, will see the full integration of Direct ATPI’s concierge service into Microsoft Teams. This will enable travellers to self-serve and communicate using AI. Microsoft Teams’ integration with the TMC’s proprietary technology comes following feedback from Direct ATPI’s travel buyers. Whereby the top demands for travel buyers in a post pandemic landscape include easy access to invoices, itineraries, passport and visa information within the applications they use in their day-to-day lives. Jenny Thornton, director of digital services at Direct ATPI said: “Direct ATPI has a long history of defining new ways of working, and this innovation will continue to bring us closer to where our customers are, as well as appeal to the tech-savvy and time-conscious travellers of the future. “This, alongside our partnership with Amadeus and their groundbreaking Cytric Easy platform with Microsoft Teams, really does stand us apart from the rest.” The company last year also launched WhatsApp to expand its multi-channel communication offering, enabling travellers to remain in communication with bookers while on the move, as well as outside of traditional 9-5 working hours. From downloading an itinerary and plane tickets to checking flight times and downloading invoice data, Direct ATPI claims its global communication tool can simplify the travel process, keeping all travel documentation and queries in one space.