Methodology for measuring the potential of a tourism destination in relation to sustainable local tourism product development

Abstract

Tourism is very strongly associated with the potential of the area, including the society, in which the tourism activities take place. This potential is often fragmented and it depends on the skills of local actors, stakeholders, and tourism management structures to discover and connect it effectively. And it does not matter whether the potential is tangible or intangible, natural or cultural. The potential of each territory is unique and needs to be summarized, measured, evaluated, and categorized for its effective and sustainable use. This article presents the first part of a methodology for the creation of a local tourism product focusing on the measurement of potential. The methods used in this process are based on decision analysis and process management methods. The methodology is addressed to all tourism actors in each destination, in particular managers of destination management organizations, local authorities, or other initiating entities. The Ministry of Regional Development certified the Methodology for the creation of a local tourism product and recommended its use to municipalities and tourism destinations.