Identification and Evaluation of Factors Affecting the Realization of Smart Tourism Development (Case Study: Dargaz County)
Keywords:
Influencing factors, smart tourism, grounded theory, Dargaz CountyAbstract
Today, given the growing importance of technology in the tourism sector, attention to the smartization approach is considered one of the most critical issues that can contribute to the growth and development of tourism. Accordingly, developed cities around the world have increasingly turned to smart urban tourism development as a strategy to overcome infrastructural and economic challenges. In this context, the present study aims to identify and evaluate the factors influencing the realization of smart tourism development in Dargaz County. This research is descriptive–analytical in nature, applied in purpose, and employs a mixed-method (qualitative–quantitative) approach. The statistical population consists of 20 experts and elites (including academics, managers, and specialists), who were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using documentary methods, field interviews, and questionnaires, and analyzed through grounded theory methodology and hybrid models (FARAS + FCOPRAS). The results indicate that at the causal level, technological investment and innovation, with a weight of 72.51, represent the most significant determining factor, emphasizing the necessity of developing sustainable communication infrastructure and investing in advanced technologies. At the contextual level, human and educational capital, with a weight of 72.69, plays a crucial role in enhancing the cognitive and professional capacities of the region. Additionally, economic and livelihood conditions, culture and social participation, social and institutional capital, and geographical location are identified as other influential contextual factors. At the level of intervening factors, managerial and economic stability, with a weight of 72.00, and decentralization and local participation, with a weight of 70.50, are recognized as the most vital components for guiding and sustaining the smartization process. Overall findings demonstrate that achieving smart tourism requires a comprehensive systemic approach that considers the interaction among technical, human, economic, managerial, and social factors, while emphasizing the importance of good and sustainable governance for balanced and effective development. This study provides an operational framework for policymakers and tourism managers in similar regions.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Younes Taghipour (Author); Ramezan Ali Naderi Mayvan; Farzad Ghaderi Bafti (Author)
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