Donald Getz

COLLABORATION THEORY AND COMMUNITY TOURISM PLANNING

Abstract This paper applies the theoretical constructs of collaboration to tourism destinations and offers insight into interorganizational collaboration for one specific tourism domain, the planning and development of local, community-based tourism destinations. Drawing primarily from the literature on interorganizational relations, the theoretical constructs of collaboration are discussed first. Challenges and considerations in the planning and development of local tourist destinations are then summarized, followed by examples of community-based collaboration research. Propositions are presented for guiding collaborative initiatives and for investigating the application of collaboration theory to the planning and development of tourism destinations, from a community-involvement perspective.

Characteristics and goals of family and owner-operated businesses in the rural tourism and hospitality sectors

Abstract This research examines goals pertaining to start-up, operations, the family, and ultimate disposition of the enterprise by family and owner-operated businesses in the rural tourism and hospitality sectors. The sample is from a survey in rural Western Australia. A large majority of respondents were from middle-aged couples, new to the business, with strong motivation to live and work in the countryside. Lifestyle and family-related goals were predominant, but there was also recognition that the business had to be profitable. Most respondents were uncertain about the ultimate disposition of their business; only about one-third had definite succession plans to involve children or other family members. Implications are drawn for business and destination development.

Models in tourism planning. Towards integration of theory and practice.

Abstract A discussion of the nature of tourism planning suggests the need for a new model of the planning process. With this purpose in mind the nature and role of models are discussed, followed by a survey of models of a theoretical and planning nature in the tourism literature. Based on systems theory, a model is presented which shows how planning and theory can be integrated. An area–tourism planning example is developed to illustrate application of the integrated approach.

Tourism planning and destination life cycle

Abstract The potential relevance of the concept of a destination life cycle to tourism planning is examined in this paper. Historical analysis of the development of Niagara Falls reveals specific problems in differentiating the hypothetical life-cycle stages of the model. A survey of experts reveals considerable variance of opinion on the question of the current state of the industry. The findings suggest that this resort has evolved into a permanent state of maturity in which aspects of consolidation, stagnation, decline, and rejuvenation are interwoven and constant. “Capacity”, in this context, is a management concept, not an absolute limit, and “rejuvenation” is planning initiative.

A network perspective on managing stakeholders for sustainable urban tourism

Purpose – This study aims to examine the current network of inter‐relationships of stakeholders representing government, the community and the tourism and hospitality industry, and their perceptions of critical stakeholders in destination development.Design/methodology/approach – While the network analysis enabled examination of the interconnectedness of stakeholders, the stakeholder approach identified the critical stakeholders in destination development. These two approaches helped determine how the existing relationship structures of destination stakeholders might influence sustainable destination development.Findings – The destination marketing/management organizations (DMOs) and stakeholders with access to or possession of critical resources have the highest centrality in urban destinations. In all three clusters, local government and DMOs are perceived to hold the greatest legitimacy and power over others in destination development. It is also found that there is a lack of “bridges” between the thre...

Travel, tourism, and hospitality research : a handbook for managers and researchers

Partial table of contents: A MANAGERIAL PERSPECTIVE. A Perspective on the Purpose and Nature of Tourism Research Methods (C. Gunn). FUNDAMENTALS OF TRAVEL AND TOURISM RESEARCH. Scaling and Attitude Measurement in Travel and Tourism Research (G. McDougall & H. Munro). NATIONAL, REGIONAL, AND MUNICIPAL PERSPECTIVES. Research in National Tourist Organizations (G. Taylor). SOME DISCIPLINARY PERSPECTIVES. The Political Dimensions of Tourism (L. Richter). AN INDUSTRY SECTOR PERSPECTIVE. Research Needs of Travel Retailers and Wholesalers (E. Wohlmuth). ASSESSING THE IMPACTS OF TOURISM. Event Tourism: Evaluating the Impacts (D. Getz). DATA COLLECTION METHODS OF PARTICULAR RELEVANCE. En Route Surveys (F. Hurst). SPECIAL MARKETING APPLICATIONS. Estimating the Potential of International Markets (D. Wynegar). Index.

The Family Business in Tourism and Hospitality

The family business is a global phenomenon, and is particularly prominent in tourism and hospitality. In many cases, the family business was developed for the purpose of facilitating personal and family goals. For example, in rural areas, farmers can use tourism as a way to generate additional income, thereby remaining in the area and retaining family property. Running a bed and breakfast establishment is a way to mix family and work. Lifestyle, locational and autonomy motives are the norm, but profit and growth-oriented entrepreneurs are also found within family businesses. This book is the first academic treatment of family business issues within the tourism and hospitality industry. It provides comprehensive assessment of ownership, management and family-related concerns across the entire business and family life cycle. Many new international case studies of real family businesses are used to illustrate key points. The book will be of significant interest to researchers and students in tourism and hospitality, small business and entrepreneurship studies, as well as to owners and potential investors in family businesses.

Residents' attitudes towards tourism: A longitudinal study in Spey Valley, Scotland

Abstract Surveys were conducted in 1978 and 1992 to reveal perceptions and attitudes of residents of the Spey Valley, Scotland, towards tourism and related issues. It was found that a remarkable stability in attitudes persisted over the 14-year period and, although most residents are positive towards tourism, through use of an index of consensus it was revealed that negative views had somewhat increased. This can largely be explained by an economic downturn, decline of the main resort facility, and perceived failure of tourism to provide desired benefits — combined with recognition of the areas dependency on tourism. Conclusions are drawn for tourism planning and management in Spey Valley, and regarding the theory and uses of perception and attitude measures.

Special events: Defining the product

Abstract Special events are a unique form of tourism product, but they should not be viewed narrowly as mere attractions for exploitation in tourism development schemes. This article discusses five different but interrelated perspectives on the event product, and argues that effective event planning and management must be based on a comprehensive model. Conclusions are drawn concerning potentially useful research themes for increasing our understanding of events and improving events tourism planning.

Capacity to absorb tourism: concepts and implications for strategic planning.

Abstract The concept of capacity to absorb tourism has received considerable attention, but measures of capacity have seldom been applied to tourism plans. This void can be attributed to varying interpretations of the meaning of capacity, the complexity of assessing and predicting impacts, and opposition to the imposition of limits on growth. In this paper, different interpretations of tourism capacity are discussed, including inherent assumptions and potential applications. It is concluded that the concept can best be applied in a systematic planning process which includes no a priori assumption of optimality or ultimate limits on growth or change. A strategic planning model is recommended which includes the establishment of goals, ongoing evaluation of impacts, and the optional use of limits.