Community Tourism Planning: A Self-Assessment Instrument

Abstract

While many studies acknowledge the need for widespread participation in the tourism planning process, few actual tools for involving the larger community in a meaningful way have been assessed. This paper describes the creation of a self-assessment instrument implemented as part of a community-centered tourism process undertaken in several Canadian location. The article argues that the instrument can be used to focus discussion around fundamental issues facing communities as they grapple with tourism development. The outcome of this implementation in six test communities is highlighted, as a factor analysis of the results revealed key areas about which tourism planners and researchers should be particularly aware.