Question 1

What is ExploreTECH?

Accepted Answer

ExploreTECH serves as a digital marketplace for hospitality and travel industry professionals to discover, compare, and source technology solutions, empowering them to make informed decisions about the technology they choose to implement to enhance their operations and guest experiences.

Question 2

What is a digital marketplace?

Accepted Answer

A digital marketplace is an online platform where vendors list and/or sell products or services to customers. It is a virtual ecosystem that brings together buyers and sellers, facilitating transactions and creating a central location for commerce. Vendors create profiles and showcase their offerings, while customers browse, search, compare, and make purchases through the platform.

Question 3

How does the platform work for buyers?

Accepted Answer

ExploreTECH operates primarily through its online platform that buyers can access free of charge. In order to take advantage of all of the benefits of the platform, buyers are advised to sign up and register for free. Once the registration process is completed, buyers are able to navigate through a user-friendly dashboard to discover the technologies they need and effortlessly compare various solutions side-by-side, empowering them to make well-informed decisions.

After finding the perfect fit, users can connect directly with their chosen providers. Furthermore, the platform offers valuable advisory services through "Voice of the Experts," providing assistance in navigating the numerous challenges of technology adoption within the Hospitality and Travel Industry.

Question 4

How does the platform work for vendors?

Accepted Answer

ExploreTECH offers a comprehensive platform tailored to technology vendors seeking to effectively engage with hotel and travel industry professionals across the MEA region. Vendors can create a detailed profile in English and Arabic to showcase their company, products, and services as a central hub for potential customers seeking insights. Through product listings, vendors can provide comprehensive information about their technology offerings, encompassing features, technical specifications, integrations, and pricing structure.

Depending on their level of subscription, subscribed vendors can further enhance their visibility and credibility by contributing news articles, case studies, thought leadership content and event participation. The platform also facilitates lead generation by connecting vendors with potential customers actively seeking technology solutions, enabling meaningful interactions and inquiries.

Question 5

What types of products or services are available on the platform?

Accepted Answer

Our platform provides a comprehensive range of offerings in the following categories to meet the diverse needs of the hospitality and travel industry:

Business Intelligence: Rate Shopping Tools, Business Intelligence Tools
Restaurant Technology: Contactless Solutions for Restaurants, Restaurant Management Software
Commercial and Distribution: Revenue Management Systems, Central Reservation Systems
Travel Buyer Tech: Internet Booking Engines, Travel Business Intelligence Tools
Hospitality Operations
Guest and Traveler Tech: Property Management Systems, Back-Office Technology
In Room Tech: Mobile Ordering Technology
Information Communication Technology: Guest Room Management Systems
Finance and Payments: Online Point-of-Sales Systems
Robotics and Automation: Automation Solutions
Hospitality Services: Audit Services

These offerings provide hotels and travel industry professionals with diverse technological solutions to enhance operations, optimize revenue, improve guest experiences, and gather valuable insights.

Question 6

Can I make purchases directly on the platform?

Accepted Answer

ExploreTECH does not facilitate direct buying or selling of products or services on the platform. Instead, it serves as a facilitator, connecting users with vendors and enabling time and resource saving with quick connections to the right people.. Through the platform, users can explore and discover their desired solutions and then directly engage with the vendors to make their purchases.

Question 7

How do I create an account/profile on the platform?

Accepted Answer

To create an account/profile on the ExploreTECH platform, simply follow these steps:

Visit our website and locate the "Register for Free" button.
Click on the "Register for Free" button to start the account creation process.
Provide your business email address when prompted.
Check your email inbox for a message from ExploreTECH.
Open the email and click on the magic link provided to log in to your account.
You will be redirected back to the platform to complete the registration.
Choose whether you want to sign up as a Buyer or Vendor.
Fill in your company name, designation, and mobile number.
Review the information you provided and click "Create Profile."
Check your email for a confirmation message from ExploreTECH.
Open the email and follow the instructions to confirm your account.

Once you have completed these steps, your account will be successfully created, and you will be able to finalize your profile setup. Should you encounter any difficulties or have additional questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to our support team for prompt assistance.

Question 8

How do I contact customer support for the platform?

Accepted Answer

If you need assistance, reaching out to our ExploreTECH customer support team is easy. You can contact us via email at exploremore@exploretech.io or give us a call at +971 (0)4 363 6588. Alternatively, you can click on the "Contact" section within our platform to conveniently fill out a contact form and connect with our support team. We are dedicated to helping you with any questions or concerns you may have and will provide prompt assistance.

Question 9

Can users leave feedback or reviews on the platform?

Accepted Answer

At ExploreTECH, we are constantly striving to enhance our platform by enhancing our features and functionalities to provide the best experience for our users. While we currently do not offer the functionality to leave feedback or reviews, we are actively working on expanding our features.

Our goal is to introduce additional functionalities, including the ability to provide feedback and reviews in the near future. We understand the importance of user input and value your feedback, as it helps us improve and better serve the technology community. Stay tuned for exciting updates on new features and improvements that will be coming to ExploreTECH. Your voice matters to us!

Question 10

What are the platform’s rules and regulations?

Accepted Answer

ExploreTECH has established a set of rules and regulations to ensure a fair and secure environment for all users. These guidelines govern various aspects of platform usage, including user conduct, content submission, intellectual property rights, privacy, and more. To get a comprehensive understanding of the platform's rules and regulations, we recommend visiting the "Terms of Use" section of the platform. This section provides detailed information about the terms and conditions, responsibilities of users, limitations, and other important legal considerations. Familiarizing yourself with these terms will help you navigate the platform and ensure a positive and compliant experience.

Question 11

How does the platform protect my personal information and data?

Accepted Answer

The platform prioritizes the protection of your personal information and data through robust security measures. We employ industry-standard encryption protocols to safeguard the confidentiality and integrity of your data during transmission. Our platform adheres to strict privacy practices and complies with applicable data protection regulations.

We implement access controls and authentication mechanisms to restrict unauthorized access to your personal information. Additionally, we regularly conduct security audits and updates to ensure our systems are up to date with the latest security measures. Rest assured that we are committed to maintaining the privacy and security of your data while using our platform. For more information, have a look at our “Privacy Policy”.

Question 12

Do you focus on any other markets than MEA?

Accepted Answer

While ExploreTECH's primary focus is on providing assistance to the hospitality and travel industry in the MEA region, we understand the potential for future expansion and continually evaluate opportunities to broaden our reach. Currently, our efforts are dedicated to serving the MEA market, ensuring that our services and solutions cater to the specific needs of this region. However, we remain open to exploring new markets and regions.

Question 13

What is your revenue model?

Accepted Answer

ExploreTECH primarily operates on a subscription-based revenue model. We offer various subscription plans tailored to the specific needs of technology vendors in the hospitality and travel industry. These subscription plans provide vendors with access to our platform's features and services, including profile creation, product listings, content contribution, lead generation, and promotional opportunities.

The subscription fees enable us to maintain and enhance the platform, ensuring a high-quality experience for both vendors and users. For detailed information about our subscription plans and pricing, please visit the "Pricing" section on our platform or contact our sales team for personalized assistance.

In addition to the subscription plans, ExploreTECH provides valuable services that are specifically designed to help professionals in the hospitality and travel industry save time and resources. With a simple click of a button, users can conveniently download vendor comparisons for a nominal fee, enabling them to conduct side-by-side evaluations of various technology solutions.

ExploreTECH also offers consultations through its "Advisory Services”, where industry professionals can access expert guidance and invaluable insights to navigate the complexities of their technological needs.

Question 14

Why do I need to have my content in Arabic?

Accepted Answer

Having your content available in Arabic is highly beneficial for maximizing reach and engagement in the MEA region, especially among ownership-level decision-makers. Arabic is widely spoken and understood in this region, including industry professionals and potential customers. Decision-makers prefer localized Arabic content, showing your dedication to meeting local requirements.

Providing Arabic content helps effectively communicate your products or services, capture a broader audience, and establish a stronger connection with local markets. This approach showcases commitment and enhances your brand's profile among potential customers. Prioritizing Arabic content demonstrates your brand's focus on catering to the specific needs of the local market, enhancing credibility and increasing chances of success in the MEA hospitality and travel industry.

Question 15

Can I load my own Arabic content?

Accepted Answer

Although we offer the flexibility of self-localization on the platform, we highly encourage vendors to leverage our seamless automated localization service, powered by Tarjama, to ensure accurate translation and localization of your content.

This service ensures that your Arabic content is effectively communicated to your target audience while maintaining consistency and quality. By making use of our localization service, you can optimize your content's reach and impact, ensuring a smooth and engaging experience for Arabic-speaking users.

Question 16

What does it mean to verify my profile?

Accepted Answer

A Verified Profile on ExploreTECH indicates that the vendor's profile has undergone a thorough verification process. To achieve verification, vendors must ensure that their content has been updated and localized into Arabic, meeting our quality standards.

This verification process helps to enhance transparency and credibility for vendors on our platform. By having a Verified Profile, vendors can showcase their commitment to providing accurate information in a localized format, building trust with potential customers in the MEA region.

Question 17

How do I access my viewer analytics?

Accepted Answer

To access your viewer analytics on ExploreTECH, just log in to your account and head to your personalized dashboard. Here, you will find a comprehensive display of viewer analytics that offer valuable insights into your profile's performance.

Track metrics such as page views, user engagement, and other relevant analytics to gain a deeper understanding of your audience. To enjoy three months of free access to this feature, vendor profiles must be verified. Additionally, premium subscribers and those who have added this feature automatically gain access to it.

Question 18

Do I pay to be listed as a vendor on ExploreTECH?

Accepted Answer

Listing as a vendor on ExploreTECH does not require any payment, as we offer a free option to be listed on our platform. Being listed allows you to showcase your products and services to our audience. However, we also offer upgraded subscription plans, such as Basic and Premium, which provide access to additional features and services.

These plans offer enhanced visibility, promotional opportunities, and more advanced analytics to help you maximize your presence and reach on ExploreTECH. While upgrading is not mandatory, it can unlock valuable benefits and help you further leverage our platform for your business success.

To find out more about the pricing plans, we recommend visiting the "Pricing" section on our platform. There, you will find detailed information about the features and benefits offered in each subscription tier, as well as the associated costs. Exploring the pricing section will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the available options and help you determine which plan best suits your specific needs and goals.

Question 19

Can I see the list of buyers that have visited my profile?

Accepted Answer

Access to viewer analytics allows you to see important information about the buyers who have visited your profile. With this feature, you can track metrics such as the number of times your profile has been viewed and the frequency of visits. In an upcoming enhancement, vendors will be able to identify the specific buyers who have visited their profile.

This valuable data helps you gain insights into buyer interest and engagement, enabling you to effectively tailor your strategies and follow up with potential leads. By leveraging the profile viewer analytics, you can make informed decisions and maximize your opportunities for successful engagement with interested buyers on the platform.

Question 20

What does the number of views refer to on my viewer analytics panel?

Accepted Answer

Views refer to the number of times your profile has been visited by users. Each unique visit to your profile counts as a view, regardless of the number of times a user revisits it. This metric provides insights into the level of engagement and interest your profile has generated among users on the platform. By tracking the number of views, you can gauge the visibility and attractiveness of your profile, helping you understand the level of attention it has received from potential customers and industry professionals.

Question 21

What does the number of impressions refer to on my viewer analytics panel?

Accepted Answer

The number of impressions refers to the total count of times your profile has been displayed to users on ExploreTECH. This includes instances where your profile appears in search results, category listings, or other relevant sections of the platform, regardless of whether users clicked on it or not. Impressions measure the overall visibility and exposure of your profile, providing insights into how often it has been seen by potential customers and industry professionals. Monitoring the number of impressions can help you gauge the reach and visibility of your profile on ExploreTECH.

Question 22

How long does it take for my profile to be approved on the platform?

Accepted Answer

The profile approval process on ExploreTECH typically takes no longer than 48 hours. Once you submit your profile, our team will review it to ensure it meets our guidelines and standards. It's important to note that approval is different from verification.

Verification involves an additional step where localization into Arabic is required, and we also verify the authenticity of the information provided. This process may take additional time, but rest assured, we strive to complete it as efficiently as possible. Our goal is to maintain a reliable and trustworthy platform for our users and industry professionals.

Question 23

How big is ExploreTECH’s vendor database?

Accepted Answer

Our database is continually growing and evolving to provide a comprehensive selection of technology solutions for the hospitality and travel industry. Currently, our platform features more than 380 vendors offering over 900 technology solutions. However, it's important to note that this number is subject to constant growth as we actively onboard new vendors and expand our listings.

Question 24

Can I change subscription tiers at any time during the year?

Accepted Answer

We understand that your business needs may evolve over time. Therefore, you have the flexibility to upgrade your subscription tier at any point during the year. You can upgrade your subscription directly from your dashboard by clicking on the “Update Subscription” link.

Question 25

Can I spread the payment?

Accepted Answer

At ExploreTECH, we have two convenient payment options available. We offer a monthly payment plan, allowing you to spread the cost of your subscription over time and an annual plan which not only entitles you to a discount but also offers the convenience of a single payment that covers your subscription for the entire year. If you have specific payment arrangements in mind or require further assistance, please contact us on exploremore@exploretech.io.

Question 26

Is it free to participate in vendor or buyer events?

Accepted Answer

While participation in in-person events always incurs a cost, subscribed vendors enjoy the advantage of priority access to free online events on a first-come, first-served basis as part of their subscription benefits. Non-subscribed vendors may also have the chance to participate in these events for a fee, depending on availability.

Question 27

Do I need to subscribe to participate in  vendor or buyer events?

Accepted Answer

No, it is not necessary to subscribe in order to participate in events. However, subscribers will receive priority access and preferential rates for participating in these events.

Question 28

How long does it take to fill in the information on your platform?

Accepted Answer

The time it takes to fill in the information on our platform depends on the number of products you have available as a vendor. For vendors who are claiming an existing profile, updating their profile or verifying the details of a product typically takes no more than 15 minutes.

Question 29

Do I need to complete all the fields when creating a profile?

Accepted Answer

When creating a profile on ExploreTECH, it's important to complete all mandatory fields, including your company description, configuration information, pricing structure details, and at least one item in your marketing collateral per product. While filling out all fields is not required, providing comprehensive information maximizes your profile's effectiveness in attracting potential buyers.

Question 30

How do I search for products or services on the platform?

Accepted Answer

To search for products or services on the ExploreTECH platform, you have two options. Firstly, you can utilize the search function located at the top of the platform's interface. This allows you to enter specific keywords or the name of a vendor or technology solution you are looking for. The search results will provide relevant matches based on your query.

Secondly, you can make use of the "Explore" function, which allows you to browse through categories, subcategories, vendors, or products. This provides a more exploratory approach, allowing you to discover technology solutions and vendors that align with your needs and preferences.

Question 31

How do I filter search results to find what I’m looking for?

Accepted Answer

Once you've performed a search, you'll notice a "Filter" function available on the search results page that offers various filter options to narrow down your results. You can filter by Company Size, Industry, Vendor Type, Sales coverage region, and Support Categories. By applying these filters, you can refine your search and focus on the specific criteria that matter most to you, making it easier to find the technology vendors and solutions that align with your requirements.

Question 32

How do I get in touch with a vendor that I am interested in connecting with?

Accepted Answer

Each vendor has a designated contact representative listed on their profile. To initiate communication, click on the "Contact Vendor Representative" button. This will direct you to a contact form where you can fill in your details and provide a message outlining your specific interests or inquiries.

Once you submit the form, the vendor representative will receive your message and respond to you directly. This streamlined process ensures efficient and direct communication between buyers and vendors, allowing for seamless collaboration and information exchange.

Question 33

How am I assured that that the content is accurate and approved by Vendor?

Accepted Answer

Vendors who have verified their profiles will be indicated as "verified," providing assurance that their content has been approved by the vendor themselves. This verification process helps ensure that the information regarding their company, products, and services is accurate and reliable. We encourage users to look for the "verified" badge when browsing vendor profiles, as it signifies that the content has undergone a verification process. While we strive to maintain the accuracy of the information.

Question 34

Can you help connect me to the specific vendors in the regions?

Accepted Answer

We have a strong network and direct access to contact representatives of various technology vendors in the Middle East and Africa. This puts us in a prime position to connect you directly with the right people who can cater to your needs in these regions. Our team is dedicated to leveraging our network to help you establish fruitful partnerships and drive your business forward in the Middle East and Africa.

Question 35

As a hotel, why should I sign up with ExploreTECH?

Accepted Answer

ExploreTECH provides hotels with a range of resources. Our comprehensive database of technology providers and solutions eliminates the need for exhaustive research, saving you valuable time. Additionally, our user-friendly “Product Comparison Tool” streamlines your workflow, allowing you to efficiently compare different technology solutions side-by-side. Save and download your comparisons in CSV or PDF format for future reference, and reach out directly to the right contacts at vendors.

Upcoming features include an AI-supported tech search and advisory tool, tech stack-building tool, tech benchmarking, and an automated RFP tool, further supporting your decision-making process and simplifying procurement.

Question 36

As a travel agent, why should I sign up with ExploreTECH?

Accepted Answer

Signing up for ExploreTECH as a travel agent offers multiple benefits to enhance your business operations and gain a competitive edge. We feature a comprehensive range of technology solutions for travel companies and are continuously expanding our offerings. Other than ExploreTECH, there is no other platform focusing on the travel industry's access to solution providers and empowering informed technology decisions.

Our comprehensive database of technology providers and solutions eliminates the need for exhaustive research, saving you valuable time. Additionally, our user-friendly “Product Comparison Tool” streamlines your workflow, allowing you to efficiently compare different technology solutions side-by-side. Save and download your comparisons in CSV or PDF format for future reference, and reach out directly to the right contacts at vendors.

Upcoming features include an AI-supported tech search and advisory tool, tech stack-building tool, tech benchmarking, and an automated RFP tool, further supporting your decision-making process and simplifying procurement.

Question 37

As a consultant why should I sign up with ExploreTECH?

Accepted Answer

As a hospitality and travel consultant, signing up for ExploreTECH provides you with a time-saving solution. Our platform offers a comprehensive database of technology providers and solutions, eliminating the need for exhaustive research. We also streamline your workflow by giving you access to our quick and easy “Product Comparison Tool”, which enables you to efficiently compare different technology solutions side-by-side, saving you valuable time and effort. You can also save and download your comparisons in CSV or PDF format for future reference.

Question 38

How do I contact customer support if I need assistance?

Accepted Answer

If you need assistance, reaching out to our ExploreTECH customer support team is easy. You can contact us via email at exploremore@exploretech.io, give us a call at +971 (0)4 363 6588 or send us a Whatsapp message at +971 55 497 6588. Alternatively, you can click on the "Contact" section within our platform to conveniently fill out a contact form and connect with our support team. We are dedicated to helping you with any questions or concerns you may have and will provide prompt assistance.

Question 39

What is the Product Comparison Tool?

Accepted Answer

ExploreTECH’s “Product Comparison Tool” is a powerful feature that allows you to compare multiple technologies side by side in a unified format. With this tool you can easily make informed decisions and avoid costly errors. The tool enables you to view key details, features, pricing, and other relevant information for each technology, all in one place.

You can customize the comparison results and download them as a PDF or CSV file, giving you the flexibility to further analyze and share the report with your team members and stakeholders. This streamlined process ensures that you have a comprehensive and structured overview of different technologies, helping you choose the best solution for your specific needs.

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