How can technology help tour operators manage risk?

1 Risk assessment

Risk assessment is the process of identifying, analyzing, and evaluating the potential hazards and threats that can affect a tour operator's business. Technology can help tour operators conduct risk assessment more efficiently and effectively by using data sources, algorithms, and platforms that can collect, process, and visualize relevant information. For example, technology can help tour operators access real-time data on weather, traffic, health, security, and environmental conditions in their destinations, and use predictive analytics to forecast potential scenarios and outcomes. Technology can also help tour operators use online platforms and tools to assess their suppliers' and partners' compliance with safety, quality, and sustainability standards.

2 Risk monitoring

Risk monitoring is the process of tracking, reviewing, and updating the status and performance of a tour operator's business in relation to the identified risks. Technology can help tour operators monitor risk more effectively and continuously by using sensors, devices, and systems that can capture, transmit, and analyze data on their operations, customers, staff, suppliers, and partners. For example, technology can help tour operators use GPS trackers, cameras, and drones to monitor the location, movement, and condition of their vehicles, equipment, and customers. Technology can also help tour operators use cloud-based platforms and dashboards to access and update their risk registers, indicators, and alerts.

3 Risk mitigation

Risk mitigation is the process of implementing actions and measures to reduce the likelihood and impact of the identified risks. Technology can help tour operators mitigate risk more proactively and creatively by using solutions, applications, and devices that can enhance their capabilities, processes, and products. For example, technology can help tour operators use artificial intelligence, chatbots, and voice assistants to automate and improve their customer service, booking, and payment systems. Technology can also help tour operators use virtual reality, augmented reality, and gamification to create and deliver more engaging and personalized experiences for their customers.

4 Risk communication

Risk communication is the process of informing, educating, and engaging the relevant stakeholders about the identified risks and the actions and measures taken to manage them. Technology can help tour operators communicate risk more clearly and consistently by using channels, platforms, and tools that can facilitate and optimize their information exchange and feedback. For example, technology can help tour operators use social media, websites, and blogs to share their risk policies, procedures, and practices with their customers, staff, suppliers, and partners. Technology can also help tour operators use mobile apps, SMS, and email to send timely and relevant notifications, alerts, and reminders to their customers and staff.

6 Risk culture

Risk culture is the set of values, beliefs, and behaviors that influence how a tour operator's staff and managers perceive, approach, and respond to risk. Technology can help tour operators foster a positive and proactive risk culture by using platforms, tools, and methods that can support their learning, collaboration, and innovation. For example, technology can help tour operators use e-learning, webinars, and podcasts to train and educate their staff on risk awareness, skills, and best practices. Technology can also help tour operators use online forums, surveys, and feedback systems to encourage and reward their staff for their risk participation, contribution, and improvement.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?