DESTINATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS: CRITERIA FOR SUCCESS–AN EXPLORATORY RESEARCH

Rapidly evolving developments in information technologies (ITs) transform the tourism industry to the digital economy. The emergence of destination management systems (DMSs) as "info-structures" enables destinations to disseminate comprehensive information about resources and services of destinations and local tourism products as well as to facilitate the planning, management, and marketing of regions as tourism entities or brands. This article explores success criteria for DMSs as identified by six key tourism destination stakeholders. It analyzes the needs and wants of stakeholders and thus provides guidance for the development and assessment of DMSs. The study is based on qualitative and quantitative research with leading authorities in the field. Attention is drawn to the role played by the public and private sectors, and the need for partnership to ensure successful application of DMSs in the future.