Tourism was one of the pioneers to digitize business processes globally, bringing flight and hotel booking online to become a digital launch. As information and communication technologies (ICT) became a global phenomenon, tourism was a consistent early adopter of new technologies and platforms. In other words, tourism and digitization are two indissoluble phenomena, destined to travel on the same track of mutual expansion and development.
The World Economic Forum (WEF, 2017) has estimated that in the decade to 2025, digitalization will create up to USD 305 billion of additional value for the tourism sector alone through increased profitability, while around USD 100 billion of value generated in the sector will transfer from traditional players to new digital competitors with innovative business models and value-producing capabilities. The digital transformation is also forecast to generate benefits valued at USD 700 billion for customers and wider society, through reduced environmental footprint, improved safety and security, and cost and time savings for consumers.
Among the trends shaping the new norm for the tourism sector:
- Artificial Intelligence: Artificial intelligence in tourism plays an increasingly leading role. While not new, AI technology is experiencing a period of acceleration due to current advances in data processing. The possibilities of its application in tourism are almost unlimited – from the hyper-personalization of services to the management of equipment, through guidance or the automatic production of editorial content. Personalization is one of the most dramatic aspects of applying AI in tourism. AI makes it possible to match the desires, habits, and preferences of the tourist with the product offered. Learning what the customer is looking for, buying and likes make it possible to create personalized and targeted offers, at all times of the trip.
- Virtual & augmented reality: AR/VR is playing a crucial role in transforming the tourism landscape and boosting travel experiences for tourists. In today’s fast-paced world, travelers love the ease of searching and booking tours on the go. The role of AR in travel apps has infinite possibilities. It has immense potential to assist and bring innovative changes to the travel and tourism industry. For travel and tourism agencies, providing such an experience to their customers can be very motivating advertising that highlights the atmosphere of the cities or locations. Virtual reality offers delights for the eyes and ears and entices the customer to dive deeper into that culture.
- Big Data: Big data has already proven useful for marketing purposes but also for tourism, notably to study tourist behavior. Big data can be effectively used to facilitate exploring popular tourism destinations and for identifying the best timeframe to visit a specific destination. Tourists produce a huge amount of data on a global scale, which can provide valuable insights into their practices and attitudes. This would allow for a deeper insight into the tourism sector, as compared to more traditional methods of surveys and interviews with focus groups. The digital transformation process has played a fundamental role in this, all digital interactions, both positive and negative, are effectively Big Data and can be transformed into useful information for market analysis to potentialize tourism offers.
- IoT: Smart Destinations require smart management as well as the integration of the stakeholders’ value chain throughout the entire process. In this process, IoT has a crucial role in enhancing the experiences of tourists, to more efficiently managing the destination, and offering a channel of information exchange. As a result, a more efficient destination, with better and more personalized experiences will improve the competitiveness of the tourism destination and of the quality of life of its citizens. New disruptive technologies, such as IoT, are crucial to achieving more efficiency and productivity in Tourism and Travel Industries.
Digitalization is bringing unprecedented opportunities for tourism to access new markets, develop new tourism products and services, adopt new business models and processes, upgrade their position in global tourism value chains and integrate into digital ecosystems. Additionally, it can improve tourism’s efficiency and resources to focus on strategic tasks, besides increasing the capacity to develop new business models, enter new markets, or internationalize operations. Join the EU DigiTOUR’s journey on boosting the development of digitalization in the tourism sector!
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EU Green Week creates a space for meaningful discussions and debates surrounding EU environment policy. It invites participants to delve into the intricacies of environmental challenges, explore innovative solutions, and share knowledge and experiences. This opportunity is not just about understanding the policies, but also about celebrating the progress made in safeguarding our planet and fostering sustainable practices. On this occasion, X23 Innovation Bakery is hosting a Partner Event on the 7th of June focused on Tourism , a remarkable moment for tourism professionals to enhance their skills and expertise in the areas of green, blue, and digital practices. With the ever-increasing demand for innovative and sustainable travel experiences, staying informed about the latest trends and embracing new skill sets has become crucial for businesses aiming to thrive in the tourism industry. EU DigiTOUR project will take center stage and be actively involved in the event, particularly during the contribution of Associazione Startup Turismo, Project Communication Manager , that will delve into the interconnectedness of sustainability and digitalization in the tourism sector. It aims to equip future generations with the necessary skills and foster innovation within the industry. The event will feature a series of keynote speeches, interactive sessions, and discussions led by experts in the field. Here is a breakdown of the agenda for the day: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/eu-green-week-tourism-skills-for-digital-and-green-transition-tickets-638731271427 Why Upskilling matters? In today's rapidly evolving world, tourists are seeking unique and eco-conscious ways to explore the world. The traditional approach to tourism is no longer sufficient; travelers now desire memorable experiences that align with their values of environmental responsibility and conservation. To meet these changing demands, tourism professionals must equip themselves with the necessary tools and knowledge. Green Skills The concept of green skills encompasses a wide range of environmentally friendly practices that promote sustainability in the tourism sector. These skills include understanding and implementing renewable energy solutions, waste management, biodiversity preservation, sustainable transportation, and eco-friendly accommodation options. By acquiring green skills, tourism professionals can ensure that their offerings have a minimal ecological footprint while also attracting environmentally conscious travelers. Blue Skills Blue skills, on the other hand, are centered around the sustainable use and preservation of marine and coastal resources. With a significant portion of tourism activities taking place in coastal areas, it is crucial for professionals to be knowledgeable about marine conservation, responsible fishing practices, and the protection of fragile ecosystems. Embracing blue skills enables tourism operators to create experiences that showcase the beauty of the ocean while safeguarding its long-term health. Digital Skills The digital revolution has had a profound impact on the tourism industry. From online bookings to virtual tours, digitalization has transformed the way travelers plan, book, and experience their trips. By acquiring digital skills, tourism professionals can harness the power of technology to enhance customer experiences, optimize marketing strategies, and streamline operations. Digital skills include proficiency in social media management, data analytics, online marketing, and the use of emerging technologies such as augmented reality and virtual reality. EU Green Week - unlocking opportunities The EU Green Week is an unparalleled opportunity for tourism professionals to delve into these critical areas of green, blue, and digital skills. The event will bring together experts from the tourism sector who will share their insights and experiences, providing valuable guidance on how to incorporate sustainable practices into business operations. Attendees will gain access to the latest industry trends, innovative strategies, and success stories that highlight the benefits of embracing green, blue, and digital skills. By participating, tourism professionals can network with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and collaborate on initiatives that drive sustainability and resilience in the industry. This event serves as a catalyst for innovation, encouraging participants to develop outstanding and disruptive offerings that meet the evolving demands of the market. Limited spots are available , so don't miss out on this chance to participate in the EU Green Week Partner Event ! Register now using the link provided and embark on a transformative journey towards a sustainable and successful future in the tourism industry.
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