VIDEO: IBM on how blockchain will - and won't - impact travel

When it comes to blockchain, focus on its business benefits and not its technology.

That was the message from Dee Waddell, IBM’s global managing director for travel and transportation industries, during his presentation at The Phocuswright Conference in Los Angeles.

Waddell says IBM is currently working with more than 100 companies in the travel space to use blockchain for business innovation, ranging from large companies like Travelport to startups such as Beenest.

But while Waddell sees potential for blockchain to create value in travel for identity, loyalty, distribution and operations, he also explains why some speculation about blockchain’s value is nothing more than hype.

Waddell's presentation follows a year of intense scrutiny on the concept of blockchain (including our theme month in February) and what it means for the sector.

See the full video of his center stage presentation below, followed by his conversation with senior reporter Mitra Sorrells in the PhocusWire Studio.