Technologies enabling the digital tourism economy Technological advancements are having a deep impact on the tourism sector. These innovations range from business management technologies (e.g. mobile technologies/cloud computing, automation and advanced robotics, blockchain, data analytics, cloud computing), to technologies that produce innovative tourism products, services and experiences (e.g. virtual/augmented reality, Internet-of-Things), and technologies that assist, understand and connect with markets (e.g. data analytics, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence) (OECD, 2017c) (Box 2.3).
Box 2.3. Enabling technologies shaping the tourism ecosystem Mobile technology/cloud computing. Cloud technologies, Wi-Fi and international mobile plans make mobile devices increasingly pervasive and important travel aids, including for accessing destination information in real time, online booking, mobile payment. Cloud technologies allow SMEs to manage their business from anywhere high speed internet is available.
Data analytics. In the digital era, consumers and businesses alike are in perpetual generation of new data. The capacity of businesses to use data drives new business models and productivity. Data analytics can predict customer preferences and channel consumer purchasing behaviour. It is also used for revenue management and to employ dynamic pricing. Employees of SMEs must develop skills to be part of this data driven ecosystem and issues of privacy, data sharing are key concerns of government.
Artificial Intelligence (AI). Artificial intelligence, chatbots, and voice technology enable customers to undertake internet searches, digital check-in, access digital concierge services, voice assistants and smart rooms. This technology offers personalised, customised, on-demand service that facilitate seamless travel.
Internet of Things (IoT). IoT can fuel a data rich tourism sector and support smart tourism by making cities more efficient. The interoperability of sensors, data, and automation produces real time insights and information for marketing and managing tourism, for improving visitor experiences, increasing operational and resource efficiencies while also reducing environmental impacts.
