Exploring The Role Of Innovative Technologies In Building A Knowledge-based Destination

摘要

Information and communications technologies (ICTs) have transformed the business and social landscape of tourism industry. Tourism organisations in such a dynamic environment must reinvent their cultures and strategies to survive and create sustainable competitive advantage. In this context, the concept of a 'knowledge based destination' is gaining popularity within the domain of policy-making and strategic regional development. The authors elaborate this new perspective and explore its relevance to the tourism industry. The analysis of qualitative data collected through focus groups revealed various social, economic and technical factors that are essential for the evolution of a 'knowledge based destination'. The authors argue that deploying innovative ICTs and enabling information infrastructures play an important role in this developmental process. This research aims at stimulating a discussion on role of innovative technological applications for the future of a destination along with the resultant policy and research implications.