The decision by Siemens to move all hotel sourcing to HRS isn't only about improving the $101 billion industrial manufacturer's lodging program. It supports a traveler-centric philosophy through flexibility and choice that's also reflected in other areas like air travel and booking channels. Process efficiencies are a bonus.
"This is not open booking by definition," said Albert James Kueng, the company's head of business travel, during an April 11 phone interview. "We're going to authorize the suppliers we think should be in the game. For example, Airbnb and other shared economy players. Do we . . .