Effective strategies for OTAs to optimize conversions

Picture of Sanjay Ghare

Sanjay Ghare

Sanjay brings over 16+ years of entrepreneurial, general management, and senior executive experience with proven expertise in business development, corporate strategy, and product & program management. Sanjay, being an Industry veteran, and an influencer, leads and drives Vervotech’s vision of “Organizing World’s Accommodation Data.” Before he founded Vervotech, he was a VP of Tavisca Solutions, where he took the started SaaS division and grown with customers in more than 15 countries.  

[vc_row type=”full_width_content” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” bg_color=”#ffffff” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”1.5%” bottom_padding=”6%” left_padding_desktop=”2%” constrain_group_2=”yes” right_padding_desktop=”2%” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” class=”newblog1906″ overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][tabbed_section style=”vertical_scrolling” tab_color=”Accent-Color” vs_navigation_width=”narrow” vs_navigation_spacing=”30px” vs_navigation_mobile_display=”hidden” vs_tab_spacing=”10%” vs_tab_tag=”h3″ el_class=”newblogmain”][tab icon_family=”none” title=”Introduction” id=”1729251425759-3″ tab_id=”1729251425759-10″][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” text_align=”left”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” top_margin_phone=”-10px” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” enable_animation=”true” animation=”fade-in-from-bottom” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1701680678946{padding-right: 10% !important;}” el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]Online travel agencies (OTAs) persistently face the challenge of shopping cart abandonment; it certainly demands a nuanced approach. A recent finding from Travelport underscores a critical trend — 64% of travelers, having explored trips on an OTA, opt to book directly with suppliers. [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1701680689780{padding-right: 10% !important;}” el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]It prompts a crucial question: where do OTAs stumble, and how can they refine the traveler journey for enhanced conversions? [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1701680702617{padding-right: 10% !important;}” el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]This article explains the intricate layers of the traveler’s journey, moving beyond the conventional focus on securing bookings. It delves into each phase, deciphering key strategies OTAs can employ to increase conversions. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/tab][tab icon_family=”none” title=”Six steps to optimize OTA conversions” id=”1729251425801-9″ tab_id=”1729251425801-9″][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” text_align=”left”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” top_margin_phone=”20px” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_custom_heading text=”Six steps to optimize OTA conversions” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%231470b3″ use_theme_fonts=”yes” el_class=”techcv080″][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”20px”][image_with_animation image_url=”19915″ animation=”None” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”35px”][vc_column_text el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]1.Mobile Optimization[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]Optimization for mobile platforms is imperative, aligning with Google’s data that 60% of destination searches stem from mobile devices.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]Ensuring swift site loading is an anchor, even a 10-second delay risks a substantial 120% increase in bounce rates. Strategic SEO and PPC campaigns are equally important, which target practical keywords and have a narrative around experiential queries. This early interaction allows OTAs to gradually construct traveler personas, setting the stage for future conversions. [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]2.Seizing the Shopping Phase[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]As inspiration transforms into active exploration, travelers enter the shopping phase. Here, the speed of query responses is paramount. OTAs must hit the much talked about “search sweet spot,” using mobile-optimized APIs and intelligent caching to deliver rapid responses.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]Diversity in fare options and the transparent display of traveler reviews become crucial during this stage. Trust, a vital element according to Travelport’s research, is significantly influenced by reviews on OTA sites, establishing the foundation for brand loyalty. [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]Read More – Managing Online Reviews and Reputation for OTAs[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”25px”][vc_column_text el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]3.Closing the Deal with a Booking [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]The booking stage represents the connection between intent and action. While price remains a crucial factor, OTAs must showcase their value proposition. It includes a user-friendly booking process, a multi-device approach to align with modern traveler habits, and tools predicting price fluctuations. The goal is to secure bookings and make OTAs the preferred choice when users are ready to book. [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”25px”][vc_column_text el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]4.Preparing for the Trip [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]Post-booking, the pre-trip phase offers an additional avenue for OTAs to deepen relationships. Timely reminders and pre-trip ancillary upsell, such as flight add-ons and car rentals, add value and convenience. OTAs can foster loyalty even before the trip commences by positioning themselves as trusted partners. [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”25px”][vc_column_text el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]5.Enhancing the In-Trip Experience [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]As the journey starts, the focus shifts to enhancing the in-trip experience. Personalized travel tips and recommendations based on user preferences elevate the traveler’s experience. In-trip assistance through various communication channels, such as app chats or text messages, strengthens the OTA’s role as a reliable travel companion.  [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”25px”][vc_column_text el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]6.Post-Trip Engagement [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]Most OTAs conclude their narrative with a single trip, but the transformative potential lies in post-trip engagement. Requesting feedback, understanding customer experiences, and ensuring a seamless post-trip journey contribute to customer loyalty. Convenience plays a pivotal role, with 73% of travelers acknowledging that the ability to book an entire trip in one place encourages re-booking with an OTA. [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”25px”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/tab][tab icon_family=”none” title=”Conclusion!” id=”1729251425892-4″ tab_id=”1729251425892-10″][vc_row_inner column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” text_align=”left”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” top_margin_phone=”-10px” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” enable_animation=”true” animation=”fade-in-from-bottom” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1701681310151{padding-right: 10% !important;}” el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]The eventual success in the online travel industry is decided by many factors that go beyond just securing bookings. Understanding and optimizing the entire traveler journey is a crucial pie of the puzzle. 

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1701681323327{padding-right: 10% !important;}” el_class=”pv1 techcv001″]From inspiring travelers with relevant content to providing smooth booking experiences and post-trip engagement, each step plays a crucial role in converting users into loyal customers. This article underlines these variables as a roadmap for OTA leaders seeking concrete ways to optimize conversations.  

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/tab][/tabbed_section][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”full_width_background” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” bg_color=”#fffaee” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”2%” constrain_group_1=”yes” bottom_padding=”2%” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_custom_heading text=”About Vervotech:” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css_animation=”fadeInDown”][vc_column_text css_animation=”none”]Vervotech is a leading Hotel Mapping and Room Mapping API that leverages the power of AI and ML to quickly and accurately identify each property listing through the verification of multiple parameters. With One of the industry’s best coverage of 98% and an accuracy of 99.999%, Vervotech is quickly becoming the mapping software of choice for all leading global companies operating in the travel and hospitality industry. To learn more about Vervotech and the ways it can enhance your business in the long run contact us: sales@vervotech.com[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_spacing=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]

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About Vervotech

Vervotech is a leading Hotel Mapping and Room Mapping API that leverages the power of AI and ML to quickly and accurately identify each property listing through the verification of multiple parameters. With One of the industry’s best coverage of 98% and an accuracy of 99.999%, Vervotech is quickly becoming the mapping software of choice for all leading global companies operating in the travel and hospitality industry. To learn more about Vervotech and the ways it can enhance your business in the long run contact us: sales@vervotech.com

Disclaimer: The author is solely responsible for the content and Vervotech does not exert any control or influence over the author's opinions or statements.

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