The effect of the internet on tourism 1

The Effect of the Internet on Tourism

Students Name

University/College
The effect of the internet on tourism 2

Dissertation Proposal: The effect of the internet on tourism

1. Introduction

In the current society, technology has emerged as a medium that plays a significant role

in many aspects of the society. It also acts as a means to gain the attention of individuals. A

closer consideration of the global relationships and tourism reveals that information technology,

and more specifically the internet, has played an integral role in developments in the

industry[ CITATION Gup10 \l 1033 ]. The internet has been a reason for the increase in tourism.

This research proposal will provide a closer analysis of the relationship between the internet and

tourism.

2. Background of the Study

A. The field of tourism

During a study of the variables that affect international relationships and tourism in

different locations and countries, an important component has been the factors that lead to the

improvements and those that limit the service hospitality. Essentially, these factors would

determine the level of service to be expected. The service is offered by a locality or a group. The

service is essential for the success of the industry. Furthermore, a closer analysis of the tourism

sector looks at the movement of people. People are attracted to particular locations due to

different variables and traits[ CITATION Ren06 \l 1033 ]. The movement is both regarding

outgoing and incoming individuals. The movement largely depends on many factors. For a start,

the cost of travel is an important component that affects the movement of people. The cost of

travel has evolved. It is no longer a luxury but a necessity, making movement much easier.

Movement is intended to achieve various ends such as business or work. In this regard,
The effect of the internet on tourism 3

globalization has played an integral role in the current trends in tourism[ CITATION Ren06 \l

1033 ]. There has been an increase in promotions and information disseminations after the advent

of the internet. It has been an important factor in the growth of tourism in a country, locality or a

specific establishment. Furthermore, in regards to the tools in tourism, the current trends in

information technology can be attributed to the versatility in the role that the innovation has for

many industries[ CITATION Joh111 \l 1033 ].

B. The role of the internet

The internet is the best technological innovations of the current age. The technology of

communication has played an integral role in the current trends in the tourism industry. It is a

tool that has made communication much easier and swift. It allows for easier interaction with

people in different locations[ CITATION AZa12 \l 1033 ]. People are no longer limited by

geography when communicating. Technology has proven beneficial in the globalization and

modernization of the tourism industry. It is often considered as a trait of development. In this

regard, developments in tourism will often involve advancements in the tools of communication.

The internet has created expansive tools of communication. It is important in the progress of

communication, and interaction among people[ CITATION Th13 \l 1033 ]. Tourists use the

internet as a medium to find locations to visit. On the other hand, tourist destinations can apply

the internet for marketing purposes, and what can be offered in specific locations. The internet

provides an avenue to find more information about a place and encourage the individual to tour a

given location.

The use of internet technology and other tools of the interaction of communication is a

wide avenue of applications. Tourism is considered as part of the organizations and groups in the
The effect of the internet on tourism 4

society that can recognize the importance and the implementation of the media. Based on the

importance of the internet as a tool, its effect on tourism is an important topic that requires

further research[ CITATION Ain04 \l 1033 ].

3. Statement of the problem

In regards to the impact of the internet on different areas of study and application, the

expected effects are a result of technology. Furthermore, the study will have to put into

perspective the application of the technology. To achieve the maximum benefits in the use of

technology in the field of tourism, it is imperative to consider the level of knowledge and interest

of the differing dynamics between the two concepts of the internet and tourism[ CITATION

Ama09 \l 1033 ].

The study will be focused on the importance of the internet in tourism. Several questions

will be considered in the study. The first is whether the use of the internet and online presence in

tourism of importance. The second question will look at the extent of importance in tourism.

Finally, the study will seek to establish whether the internet necessary or an important tool in

tourism[ CITATION Dub13 \l 1033 ].

4. Objectives of the study

The goals of the research are to determine the effect of the internet technology based on a

descriptive qualitative research. It will consider the subject matter, and it intends to achieve the

following objectives:

1. To come up with a background study of the needs in the field of tourism, with a keen analysis

of the tools for communication and promotion.

The effect of the internet on tourism 5

2. To detail an overview of the advantages that can arise due to the application of technologies

like the internet.

3. To establish the different uses of the internet in the complex process involved in the tourism

industry.

4. To ascertain the advantages of the internet usage in tourism through qualitative methods

5. Literature review

The use of the internet technology has been considered in many industries and field of

study. Furthermore, through the context of tourism, the use of communication technology and

information has been studies in regards to the extent of the necessity for the utilization of the

internet. The importance of the two major areas of study to be looked at is primarily established.

It is in regards to the studies being carried out by different academic organizations and authors.

The studies that have occurred are about the concepts of tourism and information technology.

Internet technology

The advent of the internet has been considered the best developments in the current age.

It has been achieved using technology in many fields. Dwyer and Forsyth (2006) have carried

out a study to show the importance of communication and information technology. The study

seeks to detail the impact of internet technologies in the economic development of an area or

region. The growth will often look at development in rural localities that often act as tourism

destinations. Moreover, the study will consider the advantages in the use of technology, and its

impact on tourism[ CITATION Lar06 \l 1033 ]. The study has shown that the application and use

of technology can lead to an improvement in the performance of organizations in areas that have

challenges in regards to accessibility. It is common in rural areas, and technology has been useful
The effect of the internet on tourism 6

as a means to reach a larger market[ CITATION Ala10 \l 1033 ]. It is achieved through active

participation in the organization and potential clients. The activities carried out involve business

over the internet and online transactions. Since it is hard to access a market, the internet provides

these companies with an easier way to attract new clients. In this regard, the advantages have led

to an increase in awareness of the importance of the internet as a tool for development and has

been used by tourism personnel in many governments[ CITATION Pri06 \l 1033 ].

The results are further supported by more studies that have looked at the utilization of the

internet. The study by Elliott and Boshoff (2005) has looked at the establishment of facilities

dealing with internet communication. It can be challenging, but once implemented, would

improve the efficiency of the organization. The use if the internet removes the various barriers

that can arise in the economy and business. Essentially, the target market is easily accessible.

The development of tourism

Many societies greatly rely on tourism. It has been an avenue for the economic

developments of many societies. According to Peterson (2008), the internet is an avenue for the

application of information technology and the internet. It arises from the complexities of the

development of tourism in the current era. The development of tourism relies on both the nation

and location involved. Many dynamics are exterior and would affect the performance of the

system. Tourism is a variable that is often controversial due to the political connotations. It has

led to a high level of attention in the society and has been a matter that calls for more

study[ CITATION Ric091 \l 1033 ]. In this regard, it is vital to consider the current methods in

the application of technology. The internet has acted as a means to attract the market and offer its

services.
The effect of the internet on tourism 7

The application of information technology in tourism

Many studies have been carried out in regards to the application of technology in tourism.

For a start, a study by Mills and Law (2013) looked at the use of Internet-based systems in the

provision of tourism services in a given market. Furthermore, the study looks at the stakeholders

involved in the tourism process. These individuals are involved in actions where an updated

technology is essential. Some of the individuals that comprise these groups include travel

organizations, agencies and agents. They provide services for people who are travelling outside

from a given location[ CITATION PGA10 \l 1033 ]. They also deal in providing reservation

services for people who want to stay at specific locations and detail the requirements.

The groups detailed above are the major agencies that will be the focus of the study. The

travel agency will often are a close interaction with the tourists or the people who are travelling.

Specifically, they are involved in the assurance of a trip from the point of departure to the

destination. They act as a support mechanism for tourists and potential tourists[ CITATION

Chr10 \l 1033 ]. The destination is an important part of a tourist those involved in the destination

deal with reservation. The study provided vital information in regards to the methods and results

that would prove beneficial to the project.

The methodology used for the research considers the services that are provided over the

internet. The primary approach used in the study is a comparative qualitative research that looks

and describes the differences between the different groups offering tourism services[ CITATION

Ell05 \l 1033 ]. After all, they all deal with various areas of tourism and use the internet in the

dispensation of their services[ CITATION Jul13 \l 1033 ]. The information will have an impact
The effect of the internet on tourism 8

on the study being conducted. Furthermore, the method in place is applicable in regards to the

scope of the study.

The processes involved in the context of tourism can be analysed based on a particular group

functioning in the content of different processes in tourism. In the study by Page and Connell

(2011), the main factor that is considered is the improvement of performance in less attractive

hotels that use internet systems. The results show that such establishments have the same chance

with bigger institutions in attracting customers. Specifically, the advantages arise from the use of

internet technology. The Internet acts as a tool that would lead to an increase in efficiency

resulting from the accessibility of clients[ CITATION ORe13 \l 1033 ]. Furthermore, this view is

based on the realisation that the use of hardware is a simple and necessary knowledge to acquire.

The services provided by both small and large companies can quickly reach the market. Mainly,

the use of technology is not limited to particular groups in the society. The study by Williams and

Lew (2014) shows that a qualitative analysis is of importance to understand the impact of the

internet on tourism. It provides an essential basis for the commencement of the research, both in

regards to the data collected and the methods used in coming up with conclusions.

Demand for tourism

The demand for tourism after use of the internet is an important variable to consider.

Scholars such as Page and Connell (2011) consider the concept of supply and demand in

understanding the use of the internet in tourism. Despite this, the definition of the concept of

demand is wide, and the term is applied loosely in the literature to mean a macroeconomic

demand. Furthermore, consideration of tourism in rural or inaccessible areas is of utmost

importance. The internet means that geography no longer limits people in their quest for new
The effect of the internet on tourism 9

sights. The demand for tourism in remote or unknown areas has increased. In tourism, supply is

considered as a demand being met. Two principles guide it. According to Page and Connell,

these are the location and services provided. Furthermore, tourism is a multisectoral and multi

activity. It entails many private and public businesses and organizations. They also vary in size,

with each stakeholder facing different challenges[CITATION Joh90 \l 1033 ].

Tourism is important to many countries economies. It has been a factor that has

influenced the stakeholders to make all the necessary decisions to ensure that the industry

flourishes. The increasing use of the internet has been an important factor towards this trend. It

acts as a means of globalization with countries finding an avenue to develop the tourism

activities and industry[ CITATION Jos08 \l 1033 ]. The importance of the industry is of

environmental and social benefits. These are variables when looking at the impact of the internet

on tourists. Online activities have been a major reason for the rise in tourist numbers in countries.

Furthermore, it has been an avenue where tourist understands the benefits and characteristics of a

destination[ CITATION Ste11 \l 1033 ]. Essentially, companies will have to ensure that they

maintain a favourable one reputation to attract tourists. It has been an important factor that has

meant many organizations prefer the use of the internet in comparison to other sources for

attracting visitors.

6. Method

The primary objective of the study is the application of information technology in the

field of tourism. The relationship of the concepts is looked at based on the qualitative and

descriptive form of the study.

Study Design
The effect of the internet on tourism 10

The method used in achieving the objectives arise from descriptive and qualitative

research. The method is accurate in attaining certain advantages from the tourist activities. It

also stems from the benefits in regards to cultural and social issues. Furthermore, the research is

comprised of several stages.

The first phase will involve a preliminary research. It includes the collection of

information that is essential for the start of the project. It will entail planning to ensure that the

study will occur swiftly[ CITATION Lan10 \l 1033 ]. A choice is also made in regards to the

particular area that would be explored. The given method will play a role in the determination of

the course of the research, and the limits of the study.

The study will be conducted based upon information collected from online

questionnaires. It will be delivered through the survey monkey website. It provides an easy

interface to design a questionnaire, with the expected responses. The research will also involve

the integration of different information from other available sources and published works. The

most important sources will entail companies that are involved in providing services airing from

the tourism industry and have been detailed online. The use of a qualitative descriptive approach

is an essential tool for revealing relevant information on the effect of the internet technology. It

will also involve the use of statistical data regarding the subject under study[ CITATION

Men12 \l 1033 ]. Is important in the achievement of the study objectives and success of the

project.

To achieve the goals of the study, it is imperative to consider the techniques used in the

study. What the results arrived at is much more important than the presentation of the qualitative

information that has been collected. Furthermore, the course of study means that it is important
The effect of the internet on tourism 11

to analyse the psychological-related basis of the study carefully. It will involve vital stages and

methods. Moreover, the research is carried out based on the results of different responses. It will

also entail activities by the tourism stakeholders operating online. Information will consider

aspects such as when the companies begin to be engaged in online activities. It is imperative that

the data collected is of high integrity.

Participants

The participants of the study involve various stakeholders in online truism. It will include

organisations engaged in online tourism activities, and the companies that offer hospitality

service by using the internet. Moreover, the results emerging from different studies will be

integrated into the research, and would apply to an analysis of the information provided. The use

of studies and articles detailing the issue involve a process of exclusion and inclusion.

Furthermore, the study also suggests references that look at the impact and importance of the

internet. Moreover, the essential factors in the commencement of online activities and

development of tourism are examined in the context of tourism stakeholders. The differing

functions of the two systems are required to be presented to establish background information on

both the possible similarities and differences[ CITATION Ste14 \l 1033 ]. Studies carried out

before on the relationship is necessary for the research being done. Also, to improve the accuracy

and coverage of the research, the exclusion of studies and articles in languages other than

English were made. It essentially, narrowed down the required sources of information.

Data collection

The data will be collected from the internet, libraries and facilities that are involved in

tourism activities. Furthermore, this information will be based on the exclusion and inclusion
The effect of the internet on tourism 12

criteria. The data collected will also require a determination of the methods used, variables

considered and usage of communication and internet technologies in the context of tourism

activities. The dependent variable can also be considered based on various results in the use of

technology.

Data organization and analysis

The organization of the data collected is of importance. It entails pooling all the data and

classification of the concepts. They are also organized, classified and grouped. This stage will

allow the creation of a methodical, logical and organized analysis of the information

gathered[ CITATION Mic081 \l 1033 ].

The information collected is both quantitative and qualitative. It allowed an analysis of

the primary hypothesis. The information emerging from the study with either agree with or

disapprove the assumptions about the topic under study. The assumptions will rely on the

background information that is collected during the study.

Ethical considerations

The ethical considerations arising from the use of a library-based research will involve

recognition of the authors. It will also consider their concepts and ideas analysed by the study. It

is imperative that the study cites the authors correctly. An ethical consideration is the reliability

of the collected data and validity of the results[ CITATION Mic082 \l 1033 ].

Time management
The effect of the internet on tourism 13

It is essential that the research is carried out within the required period. Planning is a

crucial step that will guarantee that the study will manage the time correctly. Furthermore, the

preliminary study shows that the strategy of working has been presented.

Table 1. Plan of Work

Task Time (weeks)

Preliminary Research 2
Planning of coursework 2
Study of literature to be used 3
Beginning of research 3
Library and internet references 1
Organization of data 1
Data analysis 2
Completion of research 1
Draft 1 1
Revisions 1
Draft 2 1
Presentation of results 1
Final manuscript 1

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