Category: Relocation Technology

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Domestic Relocation Trends Relocation Technology

Relocation Artificial Intelligence: What is on the Industry Horizon?

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GMS clients in the technology sector recognize the positive aspects that relocation artificial intelligence can provide to their organizations. These clients operate on the cusp of technological innovation. As a result, many are actively working on innovative solutions that use computers to perform tasks that usually require human interaction. Their industry experiences provide real world examples that the relocation industry can leverage to improve many processes.

What is Relocation Artificial Intelligence?

Artificial intelligence (AI) can represent many different concepts and approaches. Ultimately, AI is the process whereby a machine can:

  1. Learn from what it experiences on its own
  2. Make adjustments based on its receipt of new inputs
  3. Perform tasks that mirror those performed by humans

These AI-capable machines often must process natural language patterns and utilize “deep learning.” In computer parlance, deep learning can be described as the creation and use of a large network of neurons by way of computers. This network can process a large amount of data. Deep learning is thus very similar to how human brains work. There are online certification courses and helpful resources related to Deep Learning Algorithms.

AI Developers can use computers with large amounts of data to train these large networks to respond and act similar to how humans would respond and act. Therefore, relocation artificial intelligence is the use of AI-capable machines to perform tasks usually performed by humans during a new hire or transferee relocation.

How Might Relocation Artificial Intelligence Impact Industry Processes?

Several industry processes might be impacted by the application of AI-capable machines. Processes that might change due to relocation artificial intelligence include those that require repetition of a task or a set of tasks following a specific set of rules, guidelines, and definitions.

The top 3 industry processes that might be impacted by AI include:

1. Moving Cost Estimating

Yembo has implemented AI into their moving cost estimating program. The company’s technology utilizes deep learning and robotics algorithms. This allows the program to recognize household goods, count them, and compile the information into a cost estimate. Users only need access to a mobile web browser to access the platform. The technology calculates results including percentage estimates for accuracy based on its visual perception.

2. Real Estate Appraisals

Appraisal uses AI to create a specific formula that allows the company to predict property values and then convert these values into accurate pricing. Their focus is on removing margins of error and guesswork from property valuations and forecasts for prices. As a result, this type of relocation artificial intelligence will greatly enhance pricing decisions.

3. Mortgage Loan Initiations

Black Knight launched Digital Point of Sale, an AI-powered solution that is integrated with the company’s Empower® loan origination system. The solution leverages the company’s artificial intelligence virtual assistant, “AIVA.”

What Does This Mean?

Relocation artificial intelligence is already in place for several industry processes. Many industry suppliers are leveraging AI to automate a number of tasks. Automation for repetitive tasks and processes will help reduce errors. Also, it will allow companies to focus on providing greater value in those areas that are not repetitive.

What Should Employers do About Relocation Artificial Intelligence?

Employers should work with a qualified and experienced Relocation Management Company (RMC). RMCs will have knowledge that can assist companies in understanding how processes that utilize AI can help their relocation program. They can also share recommendations and guidelines in case studies to ensure results meet expectations as well as increase new hire and transferee satisfaction.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients enhance their relocation programs through innovative technology solutions. Our team can help your company understand how relocation artificial intelligence in different processes can provide a wide range of benefits.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation® technology platform.

Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.

Contact our experts online to learn more about relocation artificial intelligence, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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Relocation Technology

Relocation Technology Features: What You Should Expect

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Woman and dog flooring in new home

Companies should expect a number of relocation technology features when they consider working with a Relocation Management Company (RMC). Some of the most useful features may seem similar among such programs, but their execution in the various technologies may vary widely. Companies should request a full demonstration to ensure the technology will provide transferees as well as the organization the best possible experience.

Review of Relocation Technology Features

The preference for specific relocation technology features will depend on the user’s role in the organization. Transferees have different needs than Human Resource Department employees or Accounting Department team members. Robust technology solutions should be easy to use and designed to process each function’s tasks quickly and seamlessly.

Relocation Technology Features for Transferees

  1. Access Relocation Benefit Details
  2. Access Relocation Calculators and Tools
  3. Connect with Relocation Coach
  4. Download Helpful Relocation Guides
  5. Easy to Access Training Videos
  6. Expense Submission and Reimbursement
  7. Interactive Map
  8. Intuitive User Interface (important for all relocation technology features)
  9. Seamless Relocation Experience
  10. Simple to Navigate Menus
  11. Track Payment History
  12. Universal Access on Any Device, Any Time, Anywhere
  13. View and Track Initiated Services
  14. View Initiated Service Progress

DETAIL on #4: “Download Helpful Relocation Guides”

Some RMCs provide a limited amount of information about a specific destination, often published by a local organization. This type of information may not include some of the most helpful resources, such as the cost of living, schools in the local area, or exciting places to visit in the area.

Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) creates detailed Destination Spotlight documents for both Domestic and Global locations that employers can share with transferees. These documents include information about the city or town, cultural highlights, shopping venues, and local restaurants. GMS can also produce these Spotlights in video format. Video Destination Spotlights are professionally created. As a result, they help transferees and their family members visualize what it will be like to live in their new location.

Relocation Technology Features for Organizational Team Members

  1. Cloud-Based Proprietary Technology
  2. Flexible and Customizable Reporting Options
  3. Helpful Resources
  4. Relocation APIs
  5. Secure and Continually Updated Technology Platform
  6. Streamlined Relocation Program Management
  7. Universal Access on Any Device, Any Time, Anywhere

DETAIL on #4: “Relocation APIs”

Some RMCs may provide solutions to share data between their relocation technology features and the client’s data systems. Often these solutions may require transferring files on a regular basis, using FTP, or File Transfer Protocol. FTP is a way to share files from one user who uploads them to a server, so that another user can download these files to their own server. FTP is simple, and works reasonably well provided all aspects of the software and process are correctly initiated, each and every time.

GMS’ team of developers has extensive experience building Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). An API provides a framework for different computer systems to communicate and share information. It lists operations that software developers can use as they design data systems. Also, an API includes descriptions for what they actually do.

A relocation API is specifically designed to facilitate the communication of information that an RMC uses for initiations and other relocation-related functions. Clients can save time and increase the accuracy of transferee initiations in their relocation program by using a relocation API.

What Should Companies do when Comparing Relocation Technology Features?

Companies should work with a qualified Relocation Management Company (RMC) that can provide access to a robust relocation technology. This will help ensure they have access to relocation technology features that support successful transferee relocations, and that help the company effectively manage their relocation program. MyRelocation™ from Global Mobility Solutions is a single-platform, online relocation management suite that provides clients and their transferees an array of decision-making, tracking, and expense management tools.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to identify the relocation technology features most helpful for their transferees and organization. Our team can help your company design a relocation policy that uses industry-leading relocation technology solutions to provide the best experience for transferees and employees.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.

Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.

Contact our experts online to discuss how your company can learn more about relocation technology features and industry-leading solutions, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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Corporate Relocation Corporate relocation tips Relocation Best Practices Relocation Technology

What is Blockchain Technology and What Does it Mean for Relocation?

Blockchain technology in its simplest form is a form of record-keeping. The digital world records information. Then, recipients store this information in a database. Specifically, the components of blockchain technology include:

  • Block: digital information
  • Chain: public database

What is a Block?

Blocks include three specific pieces of information:

  1. Transactional data such as date, time, dollar amounts
  2. Identity of transaction participants, using unique digital signatures (not actual names)
  3. Hash: a unique identification code stored in a block to distinguish it from other blocks

What is a Chain?

Chains are public databases:

  1. Transactions are publicly recorded
  2. Public network is based on user trust through a Peer-to-Peer (P2P) network
  3. Digital information is distributed but it is not duplicated
  4. Consensus process ensures adoption of longest chain available (discouraging multiple chains)

How Does Blockchain Technology Work?

Basically, blockchain technology lets multiple users add to recorded information. The process is governed by agreed-upon principles. The information is shared over a decentralized network. There are specific requirements for this technology to work as designed:

  1. Private key cryptography provides authentication for users; possession of the key is ownership
  2. A distributed P2P network oversees the authorization for block activity

Blockchain technology means the basis for transactions no longer relies on trust. Instead of trust, the decentralized network confirms the identity of participants and their ability to perform the transaction.

Real World Examples Using Blockchain Technology

Because blockchain technology is a form of record-keeping, various industries use it in many different ways. For example, an airline can use it to help prevent scheduling conflicts. Transportation companies can use this innovative record-keeping system to manage cargo shipments. Retail companies can use it to track products from source to most recent warehouse or store location.

For industries that rely on information verification, blockchain technology can offer several advantages throughout entire processes:

  1. Data storage that does not require dependence on other organizations
  2. Improvements in programs that reward loyalty by recording activities to a specific chain
  3. Lower costs to develop and maintain trusted relationships in sales
  4. Smart computer programs that can execute contracts without assistance or interference
  5. Speed of transactions can increase dramatically with no need for transaction confirmation by a middleman (banks, credit card companies)

What Does Blockchain Technology Mean for Relocation?

There are several relocation processes where blockchain technology might have an immediate and positive impact if participants adopt it as an acceptable practice. Processes that impact multiple parties and that rely on documentation, information, and verification are ideal blockchain technology candidates, including:

  1. Home Purchase and Sale (recording deeds, executing contracts, verification of identification, authorization for transaction)
  2. Household Goods Moves (initiation of relocation, contracts, authorizations required to proceed, process tracking, delivery confirmation)
  3. Expense Tracking and Reimbursement (initiation of service, documentation of expenses, authorization to approve reimbursement, verification of accounts, deposits of funds)

Ultimately, the entire relocation process from start to finish could be managed within blockchain technology. The more that P2P networks replace disparate systems, the greater reduction there is in expensive verification systems that revolve around trust. Innovation in data and record-keeping in relocation will allow for greater speed of transactions. As a result, processes will become easier for participants who can leverage this data for information and verification.

What Should Employers do About Blockchain Technology?

Employers should stay informed about the use of blockchain technology as it relates to processes in their relocation program. As new opportunities arise to leverage this innovative solution across various relocation processes, employers may be able to gain many benefits including speed and ease of transactions throughout the transferee or new hire’s relocation.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to leverage new technology for their relocation programs. As a result, our team can help your company learn how blockchain technology can improve the speed and ease of your relocation program’s processes.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com, created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.

Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.

Contact our experts online to learn more about blockchain technology and relocation, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary relocation policy review

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Domestic Relocation Domestic Relocation Tips Global Relocation Global Relocation Tips Relocation Technology

Saving Time and Increasing Data Accuracy with a Relocation API

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Clients can save time and increase the accuracy of transferee initiations in their relocation program through an Application Programming Interface, or relocation API. An API provides a framework for different computer systems to communicate and share information. Generally, it lists operations that software developers can use in their design work. Also, an API includes descriptions for what they actually do. A relocation API facilities the communication of information that a Relocation Management Company (RMC) uses for initiations or other relocation-related functions.

Where Should a Client Start with a Relocation API?

The Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) team of developers has extensive experience building APIs to help clients with their relocation program needs. The team recently built an exceptionally robust relocation API for a client’s in-house system to interact with MyRelocation®. Award winning cloud-based MyRelocation® technology is specifically designed to streamline a company’s relocation management.

The GMS MyRelocation® technology provides everything a transferee needs to track and manage their relocation. It also provides clients with an advance financial reporting dashboard including over 200 custom reports on demand.

GMS’ team of developers recommends that before discussing a relocation API, clients should identify their goals. Having clear goals and defined end tasks helps developers quickly hone in on several possible solutions that will work correctly. In general, clients should consider goals including:

  1. Increasing process efficiency
  2. Improving data accuracy
  3. Providing flexibility for data and processes
  4. Enhancing speed of data transfer
  5. Additional and possible future uses for the relocation API data

For example, a client may want to implement a relocation API to replace current processes of completing online forms or submitting PDF documents that duplicate data in the client’s current system. Many clients with transferees already have the relocating employee’s information within their internal Human Resource Information System (HRIS). A relocation API can leverage this data to facilitate relocation initiations in the MyRelocation® portal. That same data is then available for use to interface with the GMS Travel Management Program. It might also be of use with visa and immigration systems for global relocations.

What does a Relocation API do?

Once a client defines their goals, developers can work together to define the relocation API. Major elements of it should include:

  • What the API actually does—the data it communicates with between systems
  • How the API works within the systems—where does data reside and how does it move between systems
  • The specific actions on each side of the interface to facilitate its functioning

By taking a holistic approach to development, clients and GMS can anticipate relocation program requirements and transferee needs. Clients can achieve significant process efficiencies and direct time savings toward value-added corporate objectives.

What Should Employers do?

Employers should examine their current relocation programs and processes to identify opportunities to create a relocation API. This will help internal departments increase their efficiency and save valuable time they can use to focus on business goals and corporate objectives.

Employers should work with a qualified and experienced Relocation Management Company (RMC) that can provide guidance and insight as to best practices for developing a relocation API. Industry-leading relocation technology solutions are specially designed to quickly and easily integrate with each client’s Human Resource Information Systems.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how to identify and develop their relocation API. Our team can help your company create a relocation API that follows industry best practices. As a result, your company will save time, and increase its data accuracy.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation® technology platform.

Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s interest in developing a relocation API, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request a relocation technology demo

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Choosing a Relocation Company Relocation Technology

What Should a Company Consider When Choosing Relocation Technology?

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Choosing relocation technology requires careful consideration. The solution to making the right choice is to know what questions to ask. Companies should ask their Relocation Management Company (RMC) a number of questions to ensure they receive an industry-leading technology.

What are the 5 Major Questions Companies Should Ask?

When it comes to choosing relocation technology companies should ask five major questions. While all of the questions are important, perhaps first and foremost is:

Question #1: Is the relocation technology secure, safe, and fully compliant?

RMCs should have systems that are compliant, as well as operable even during periods of disruption. Consider performing a security assessment of the RMC. Ask for the RMC’s business continuity plan. Answers that should be forthcoming would assure companies that:

  1. Relocating employee’s personal information is fully secure and protected
  2. Privacy setup is compliant with all regulatory requirements
  3. Necessary organization service controls are in place

Question #2: How will choosing relocation technology like this solution help our relocating employees?

Since employees will interact with the technology, it should be seen as helpful. A robust technology solution will provide employees with a positive experience. Answers to look for would include:

  1. The technology is fully accessible across any type of devices, including tablets and smartphones
  2. It can be used by relocating employees as well as candidates for positions
  3. All aspects of relocation should be covered including:
    • Expense submission and tracking—real-time and online
    • Travel arrangements
    • Tools to help transferees learn new languages and cultures
    • Access to details of all relocation benefits
    • Easy to use calculators to create buy versus rent comparisons
    • Alerts that can be sent by text or email
    • Virtual destination information and guides

Question #3: How will choosing relocation technology help our company’s relocation program?

Answers should provide assurance of a robust single-platform technology solution. The relocation technology should provide all departments that have an interest in relocation with helpful tools to understand, administer, and report on the program. Human resources, talent acquisition, accounting, and other administrative stakeholders should be able to increase their efficiency with:

  1. Online tools and resources such as reports for planning and management
  2. Analytics and tools for pre-hire and decision processes
  3. Easy to customize dashboards for data displays
  4. Budgeting and cost estimating capabilities
  5. Comprehensive performance analytics including metrics and service level agreements
  6. Easy to customize online relocation initiation and approval processes
  7. Service and financial reporting suites on demand and fully customizable

Question #4: When choosing relocation technology like this, do we know if it is customizable and scalable?

Answers should confirm that you can customize the technology to meet your company’s needs. Views should be easy to change to provide a viewer with the information they need, when they need it. Reports should be easy to create and easy to change so that any user’s needs can be fully met. The technology should be able to accommodate any number of relocating employees, from 10 to 500 or more, as your company grows in size and global footprint.

Question #5: How will this relocation technology integrate with other corporate systems?

Answers should confirm that the technology will integrate with your existing payroll, human resource administration, and other critical operating systems. This will ensure the technology will provide an enhancement to your company’s workflows and processes.

What Should Companies do when Choosing Relocation Technology?

Companies should work with a qualified Relocation Management Company (RMC) that can provide access to a robust relocation technology. MyRelocation™ from Global Mobility Solutions is a single-platform, online relocation management suite that provides our clients and their transferees an array of decision-making, tracking, and expense management tools.

GMS was the first relocation company to register as a .com. The company also created the first online interactive tools and calculators, and revolutionized the entire relocation industry. GMS continues to set the industry pace as the pioneer in innovation and technology solutions with its proprietary MyRelocation™ technology platform.

Conclusion

GMS’ team of global relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand how they can gain the benefits of using a leading relocation technology for managing relocation processes. Our team can help your company learn how to choose relocation technology that is safe, secure, and compliant. This will ensure privacy and protection of employee information. We can also demonstrate our easy to use tools that provide quick and simple solutions for information and expense tracking and reporting.

Global Mobility Solutions is proud to be named and ranked #1 Overall, and #1 in Quality of Service by HRO Today’s 2019 Baker’s Dozen Customer Satisfaction Survey.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts who are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online to discuss your company’s needs for choosing relocation technology, or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request a relocation technology demo

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Relocation Policy Review Relocation Programs Relocation Technology

Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Benchmark Your Relocation Policy

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Industry best practice shows employers should benchmark their relocation policy every 12 to 18 months to ensure your company remains competitive with your industry peers. A thorough benchmark will also help you learn about how the relocation industry is changing to reflect higher employee expectations for relocations.

As an employer, are you confident that every internal stakeholder in your company understands the importance of your relocation policy? Do you think they understand how it relates to their functional discipline? Most employers understand their relocation policy impacts several departments. As the competitive landscape changes in their industry as well as in the relocation industry, the importance of why employers should benchmark their relocation policy becomes increasingly clear.

Top 5 Reasons You Should Benchmark Your Relocation Policy:

1. You Should Benchmark to Identify Enhancements and Cost Savings

Reviewing industry best practices can show areas where your company can save costs or enhance your relocation policy to reduce costly exceptions. Learning about new and changing regulations can help your company avoid costs that may arise from immigration, legal, or tax issues. A thorough benchmark will identify technological enhancements that may be useful for communications, processes, or cost savings.

2. Align Corporate Mobility Objectives on a Global Basis

Many companies have operations spread around the world. This may lead to significant differences in relocation policies and implementations. Employers should benchmark their relocation policy to identify such differences. They should also work to align all areas to a consistent policy that fully supports corporate objectives regardless of location.

3. Understand Your Industry’s Competitive Relocation Landscape

Most of your industry peers also have relocation policies they use to attract and retain new hires and transferees. Employers should benchmark their relocation policy to identify how their industry competitors are designing their relocation policies. With this information, employers can then design a relocation policy that ensures they remain competitive and will be able to attract highly skilled talent.

4. Learn About Relocation Innovations

Technology is useful for informing and engaging employees throughout their relocation process. It also increases the speed of communications and provides valuable information and assistance. Technology can help transferees receive reimbursements in a timely manner. Employers should benchmark their relocation policy to help them learn about new ideas and innovative solutions to employee relocation issues.

5. Increase Internal Stakeholder Knowledge on Why You Should Benchmark

At most companies, several departments interact with the relocation process. Internal stakeholders from finance, procurement, and legal can learn how transferees interact with each department, what their needs are, and what the best practices are related to their discipline. Employers should benchmark their relocation policy and include internal stakeholders in the process. This will ensure their understanding of relocation policy guidelines. Also, it will help provide transferees with a smooth and easy relocation process as they interact with diverse internal stakeholders.

What Should Employers Do?

Employers should benchmark their relocation policy with a knowledgeable Relocation Management Company (RMC). The policy benchmark should include a full assessment of the company’s current policy as well as corporate objectives. This allows the RMC to benchmark the relocation policy to industry best practices. As a result, the RMC will be able to present a full complement of recommendations to ensure the employer can implement relocation policy best practices. This will also help them maintain a competitive edge in their industry.

Conclusion

Global Mobility Solutions’ team of corporate relocation experts has helped thousands of our clients understand why they should benchmark their relocation policy. We can help your company understand how to create a relocation policy that reflects industry best practices. As a result, this will ensure the policy attracts highly skilled new hires and transferees.

Learn best practices from Global Mobility Solutions, the relocation industry and technology experts who are dedicated to keeping you informed and connected. Contact our experts online or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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Relocation Management Relocation Technology

MyRelocation® Video Resources Help Relocating Employees Learn and Connect

MyRelocation® from Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) is a cloud-based relocation technology with video resources that lets clients manage and track your employees’ relocation. The technology provides intuitive and easy to use dashboards and helpful information. It also gives users the ability to create over 200 customizable reports on demand. Relocating employees value the ability to access relocation tools and calculators, and utilize virtual destination features. They also prefer the ability to submit expenses online for quick reimbursement, and connect with their relocation coach.

Video Resources

Video enhancements to MyRelocation® improve the usefulness of the technology. They also teach clients and their employees how to best utilize the robust program’s many features. Online tutorials take users step-by-step through several screens, showing how to submit information and where to find data.

In addition to Destination Spotlight reports, several destinations are in line for development of video resources. These videos bring the location to life for employees and their family members. Seeing a new location and traveling through it by way of a video gives depth to the experience. It also generates interest and excitement about the relocation.

Benefits of Video Resources

In addition to providing valuable information for relocating employees and their families, video resources also:

  1. Build credibility and trust with employees and their families, demonstrating to them that their employer truly cares about their welfare and happiness in their new location.
  2. Provide visually engaging images that increase the employee’s ability to envision themselves in the new location.
  3. Can be easily shared with other family members and friends to join in on the entertainment, giving decision-makers greater confidence in their recommendations.
  4. Increase acceptance rates for assignments, as videos have been shown to be highly effective for increasing conversion rates related to buying decisions and assignment acceptances.

Conclusion

Providing relocating employees and their families with a superior relocation technology like MyRelocation® helps them have a successful relocation process. Additional resources in video formats give employees peace of mind when a new transfer assignment is under consideration. Seeing a new location through a video is a helpful way to learn about the many positive features of a community.

The global relocation experts at GMS have the knowledge and expertise to help your company communicate the benefits of video resources to your relocating employees. Contact our team of experts to discuss your relocation technology needs, or call us at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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Global Mobility Global Relocation Global Relocation Tips Global Relocation Trends Immigration Rules Relocation Challenges Relocation Management Relocation Programs Relocation Technology

What are the 2018 Global Relocation Trends?

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What are the major 2018 global relocation trends shaping the industry? As workforce mobility and employee relocation continues to increase, several trends change how clients respond to increasing employee requirements regarding their relocation needs. Also, global changes in how employees are able to accept transferee assignments, such as limits on working visas and work permits, further impact company plans for mobility.

Our team of global relocation experts have identified five key trends that are shaping 2018 Global Relocation.

2018 Global Relocation Trends

Growth in Partner and Spouse Career Support Programs

As companies continue to expand globally, the need for a mobile workforce to accept transferee assignments has increased exponentially. Along with this mobile workforce, services designed specifically for spouses and partners have become increasingly important to employees. Spouses and partners are critical to ensuring transferee success. It is important for clients to provide support and information specifically for spouses and partners to help them with their relocation process. Specifically, pre-decision support, an online job search and assistance portal, and professional career services are important programs and services for spouses and partners. Transferees can be secure in the knowledge that their spouses and partners will receive as much assistance as they need to be successful in their new location.

Flexible and Responsive Global Relocation Programs

Global relocation programs need to provide enough flexibility to anticipate and provide for challenges and opportunities that are unique to specific locations. Many multi-national clients have designed a corporate-level relocation program, which then is further customized for each international headquarter location. Relocation programs designed at the corporate level need to provide for a multitude of options and differences across locations. Our recent Case Study on Implementation Success Factors describes in detail the importance of identifying all stakeholders and engaging them early in the process to ensure implementation success.

Immigration Challenges

Countries are increasingly placing limits on the number and types of working visas and work permits that allow transferees to enter the country legally for work assignments. Some countries such as the United Kingdom have seen the number of applications exceed the monthly quota. Other countries such as China have changed requirements and set up a Working Permits Points System that emphasizes transferees with specialized knowledge. The United States has instituted travel restrictions for specific locations, and has increased enforcement of immigration requirements. As countries around the world respond to migration challenges, the impact on global relocation programs will continue to evolve.

Technology Advances

Global relocation programs continue to respond to evolving technology changes. Increasingly, mobile technology must be responsive to provide transferees with information and solutions during their relocation process when they need it, wherever they are located. Transferees should be able to get information on the go, and upload expenses for quick reimbursement. Mobile enhanced relocation technology solutions such as MyRelocation should be available, as it is platform-responsive and able to be accessed anywhere, making it the most useful solution for a mobile workforce.

Outsourcing Relocation Programs to Industry Experts

Global relocation programs must cover a wide array of specialized issues such as tax, visa applications, and compliance reporting. Furthermore, it is to a client’s best advantage to consult with experts who have knowledge and experience in the specific aspects of these areas as they relate to global relocation programs. Companies can benefit from an outsourced solution that specializes in unique relocation needs. Working with relocation experts who have extensive experience in these and other areas can help a company avoid risks and respond more effectively to transferee’s requests for guidance and advice.

Conclusion

Thoroughly reviewing your global relocation policy and benchmarking to industry best practices keeps your company at the forefront of your industry peers, reinforces employee satisfaction, and promotes successful relocations. The global relocation experts at Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) have the knowledge and expertise to help your company remain at the forefront of 2018 global relocation trends, and offer your employees the best relocation experience.

Contact our team of experts to discuss your global relocation policy needs, or call us at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

Request your complimentary relocation policy review

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Business Services Domestic Relocation Global Relocation Relocation Technology

Video Series of Spotlights are Great Tools to Help Employees Accept Relocation Assignments

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Companies with successful relocation programs provide as much information about new locations as possible. This helps their employees and family members gain a favorable impression and acceptance of a relocation assignment. A well-designed video spotlight as part of a video series highlighting many aspects of a location’s offerings and experiences will bring the location to life. The video lets the employee see first-hand how their lives will be enriched with this new experience.

These are the four major benefits of using video for relocation programs:

1. Builds Trust

Companies that provide helpful information build credibility and trust among employees and their families that their welfare and happiness are of great importance in choosing a new location. A video spotlight showing highlights and exciting activities provides peace of mind. Additionally, it boosts the confidence of employees considering a relocation assignment.

2. Brings Location to Life

For employees who have not traveled to a new location, or who have only visited briefly, a video spotlight literally brings the location to life. Images of people visiting local attractions and visually engaging presentations of daily life show the vibrancy of an area. The video gives employees assurance and they can see themselves in the same positive and appealing environment.

3. Easy to Share

Employees often rely on their family, friends, and colleagues in their decision process when it comes to considering a relocation assignment. Since humans process images and scenes much faster than they can process words or sentences, a video is an ideal format to quickly communicate information about a new location. A video spotlight is also easy to share and provides an entertaining presentation. This helps decision-makers feel confident in their recommendations and guidance.

4. Increases Acceptance

Employees considering a relocation assignment are looking for information to help convince them that a relocation assignment will be a valuable experience. Videos have been shown to be highly effective at increasing conversion rates. A robust video spotlight is a valuable tool to help employees and their families decide to accept relocation assignments.

Conclusion

Video spotlights are a highly effective resource that help increase employee acceptance of relocation assignments. Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) provides its clients with video spotlights and several other helpful resources they can share with their employees to promote successful relocations.

See our Seattle Video Spotlight here:

Our team of relocation program experts can provide a wealth of video spotlights, Global Spotlights, North America Spotlights, and other highly valuable resources for your company and your employees. To learn more about our award-winning services, contact us online or give us a call at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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Domestic Relocation Global Relocation Relocation Management Relocation Technology

How to Choose Relocation Technology

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There are many points to consider when it comes time to choose relocation technology for your company and transferees. The choice should provide information that is useful to companies for managing the relocation process, and be easy to use for transferees as they go through their relocation.

A good way to start determining how to choose relocation technology is to examine what is most important to departments that need information from the solution. Talk to internal stakeholders and document their most pressing data needs. Keep track of the topics and then create a chart to see if multiple departments have similar data needs. This is similar to creating a gap analysis, and will provide clarity and identity areas in need of attention.

With the gap analysis in hand, you can easily determine the parameters a relocation technology should provide. At a minimum, you should choose relocation technology that will provide the following:

Reports and Processes

  1. A full range of customizable reports to give all stakeholders information they need

Look for a relocation technology that provides advanced financial reporting and the ability to create custom reports on demand. Stakeholders will be able to design reports that provide the exact information they need to manage the process, whether it is expense accounting, benefit administration, or location-specific reporting for international residency compliance.

  1. Easy to use processes for transferees to access helpful information and report expenses

Choose relocation technology that has a good user interface. The interface should have easy to find options and menu choices that are quickly and easily understandable. Transferees on the go should be able to submit expenses quickly and anticipate fast reimbursements with a solution that has a built-in approval process.

Integration and Scalability

  1. Integration into company systems such as payroll and benefits

Relocation technology should be easily integrated into company systems to eliminate duplication of information and non-value added processes such as data rekeying. An integrated solution will utilize the same company data sources so information is based on company records and is instantly updated when company data is updated.

  1. Scalability so as your company grows, the solution can easily grow with your relocation program

A relocation technology should be scalable so you can add new transferees as needed. As your company grows, the relocation technology should accept new initiations easily and quickly. It should also have the ability to access resources and information on a global basis. This ensures that as your company’s needs and locations change, information is readily available to help transferees.

Security and Platform-Neutral

  1. Choose relocation technology with full data security and compliance

Any relocation technology must provide full data security and compliance to ensure the safe transmission of information. Look for a solution that provides encryption during use and controlled access. This ensures company and transferee information cannot be accessed, viewed, or compromised. The solution provider should have a publicized privacy policy. Their privacy policy should clearly define their responsibilities and the actions undertaken to ensure data security.

  1. A platform-neutral solution so users can access the technology from any device, anywhere

Choose relocation technology that is fully platform-neutral. This allows users to access the solution at a desktop, a tablet, a mobile phone, or a laptop without losing any functionality. This ensures users have the most flexibility in how they access the technology.

Conclusion

When you identify each stakeholder’s important parameters, you can easily choose relocation technology by identifying if the solution meets the minimum provisions noted above. The corporate relocation experts at Global Mobility Solutions (GMS) understand relocation technology and can help your company find a robust solution that not only meets identified parameters, but exceeds your expectations for functionality, service, and flexibility.

Contact our team of experts to discuss how we can help you choose relocation technology that provides everything your company and transferees need, or call us directly at 800.617.1904 or 480.922.0700 today.

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About

Contact Us

About Us

GMS Client Login

Privacy Policy

Other Services

Our Technology

Global Relocation

Group Moves

U.S. & Canadian Relocation

Address

Global Mobility Solutions
15333 N. Pima Road
Scottsdale AZ, 85260

1.800.617.1904
Available 24/7/365

About

Contact Us

About Us

GMS Client Login

Privacy Policy

Address

Global Mobility Solutions
15333 N. Pima Road
Scottsdale AZ, 85260

1.800.617.1904
Available 24/7/365

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