DESTINATION MANAGEMENT
What is destination management and what has it got to do with tourism management?
Basically destination management is the management of an area, its attractions, services and infrastructure in a way that maximises on the qualities and the benefits for the tourist and operators alike.
It is not easy and requires the co-operation of the tourism operators and service providers to work together, rather than individuals all operating on their own.
It requires people to work together and develop a common vision and strategy for the area. For some this requires quite a significant leap of faith.
You need good research and data to better target your potential audiences and everyone involved needs to commit to improving the quality of their services and facilities. Once you have carried out your market research you will need to decide how you are going to market the area and decide on branding. while it sounds pretty obvious, there are an increasing number of areas being developed and promoted as destinations and you will have to appeal to the markets that you target.
Internet and search engines are increasingly used by potential visitors so you need to have some really good articles and feedback on why your destination is the one from them. You will need to find ways to optimise your ranking with the many different search engines that are available today.
Think creatively to sell the destination, everyone has mountains, lakes, rivers and towns and cities, so what is so special about your place, your destination. Ask people and what is special not just the visitors, but the people who live and work there. Then develop these to relate to potential visitors.
Finally, nobody likes to be managed. create the experiences to capture the hearts and minds of those who live, work and visit your very special destination. This is what good effective sustainable development is all about.
Destination management is therefore about a holistic approach to tourism management in which you work together with others for the betterment of the destination. It doesn't mean that you cant compete, competition is good but you should use it to raise the quality of the destination.
For more information or to discuss your tourism projects, contact us at;
Future Directions
enquiries@futuredirections.org.uk
01874 638 979
or click on the quick link button.