Tourist Information Search Research Articles

Wine tourist valuation of information sources: the role of prior travel

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine winery visitors’ use of information sources in making decisions regarding the choice of wineries to visit. Enrichment theory is used as a framework for determining how previous experience influences the decision on how much and what type of information individuals will use when planning a trip using wine tourism as the context for the research.Design/methodology/approachA visitor study was conducted at 23 wineries in the US Southeast. Data were collected from winery visitors using a structured self-administered questionnaire.FindingsResults from 832 consumers indicate that an individual’s previous travel systematically influences the number and type of information sources that they will seek out when making future consumer decisions. Findings confirmed the hypothesized expectations about wine tourist information search behavior and help to partially explain the nature of bounded rationality in the case of tourists’ winery visit decisions.Research limitations/implicationsBecause the study focused only on winery visitors in the US Southeast, the research results may lack generalizability.Practical implicationsThese findings can assist winery owners and destinations with wineries in their promotional efforts. Of major importance is the finding that increases in experiential knowledge from prior travel are monotonically associated with increases in the number of information sources marked to be valuable in selecting a winery. The influence of experience is particularly dramatic in that the mean number of information sources marked to be valuable moves from a low of 2.5 to a high of 10.0 out of 16 as travel experience increases.Originality/valueThe study contributed significant and useful findings that advance the application of enrichment theory to wine tourism. Enrichment theory does not currently differentiate between types of knowledge that enrich a consumer’s ability to more easily encode and use new information. The current study confirms that experiential knowledge is an important knowledge construct in models of bounded rationality.

Footprint: Tourism Information Search based on Mixed Reality

In the quest to provide better information seeking experience during travelling, this paper is set to design, build and trial a prototype tourism information search application based on mixed reality. This paper proposes “Footprint”, an android-based tourism information search application in a mixed reality environment, whereby it overlays tourism-related information on the image that the mobile phone camera is focused at. Using Footprint, the user would only need to point the mobile phone camera on a specific spot, and Footprint will overlay all in-formation on geo-tagged tourism objects as far as 30 meters away. User is also able to filter search information based on the data source of information (such as Google or Wiki) or based on the category (such as Food or Landmark). It is hoped that this experience would one day become a trend, as when more reality-environments will be shaped into surreal, yet virtual alternatives through Internet of Things (IoT), and there will be more ubiquitous resource ac-cess through many devices, networks, and user content.

The Analysis on the Relationship among Information Search Motivation, Tourism Omni-Channel Satisfaction and Purchase Intention in Data Technology Age

Objectives: With the advent of the data technology age, this study aims to prove tourists’ behaviors on tourism omnichannel in the world of tourism industry. Methods: We analyze the relationships among tourist information by searching motivation and purchase intention with tourism omni-channel by using tourist satisfaction with omni-channel as a mediator. In detail, tourist information search motivation includes ease of use and trust in this study. For the analysis we developed field study methods based upon the conceptual theory. To validate the questionnaire and its model, we performed a controlled empirical method such as a field survey, analyzed data statistically and proved the hypotheses. Findings: The results are analyzed in multiple and simple regression analysis of the effect of tourism information search motivation (ease of use and trust) on tourism omni-channel satisfaction and of the effect of tourism omni-channel satisfaction on purchase intention. First empirical result is found that tourism information search motivation (ease of use and trust) on tourism omni-channel positively influences satisfaction. That mean that the higher tourist’s ease of use for searching information as tourism omni-channel search motivation is, the more they are satisfied with tourism information through tourism omnichannel. And also that means that the stronger trust as tourism omni-channel search motivation tourists have, the more they are satisfied with tourism information through tourism omni-channel. Secondly, tourism omni-channel Satisfaction is proved to positively influence purchase intention. In other words, the more their satisfactions are with tourism omnichannel, the higher their purchase intentions are. Finally the findings help us to understand the motivation of searching tourism information, satisfaction and purchase intention as tourists’ behavior on tourism omni-channel. Application: The need for the tourism omni-channel may be so phenomenal at the data technology age that tourism industry should utilize this opportunity of the data technology to create new customer and market on omni-channel commerce.

관광옴니채널상의 관광정보탐색 동기가 만족도에 미치는 영향관계 분석 -관광경험과 위험지각의 조절효과를 고려하여-

관광옴니채널상의 관광정보탐색 동기가 만족도에 미치는 영향관계 분석 -관광경험과 위험지각의 조절효과를 고려하여-

Pre-trip tourism information search by smartphones and use of alternative information channels: A conceptual model

AbstractThis study developed a comprehensive model of how smartphone users search for pre-trip tourism information. Important dimensions and relationships in tourism information search (TIS) behavior were studied in 21 subjects. The data collection process included semi-structured in-depth interviewing data and field observation data. The analysis revealed 10 activities characteristic of TIS behavior: internal searches, mobile searches, saving information in the smartphones, preliminary collaborative TIS, barriers to TIS, bringing mobile search to an end, summarizing information, PC Internet search, advanced collaborative TIS, and searches via editorial communications. Such data collection was not performed in isolation. Further, 20 propositions have been developed for future testing. The results suggest that pre-trip TIS appears to consist in a diversity of search patterns with the usage of multiple information sources; in addition, it is no longer individual but collaborative behavior in the context of ...

Efficiency, effectiveness, and satisfaction of responsive mobile tourism websites: a mobile usability study

Considering the high penetration of internet-enabled smartphones, it is not surprising that DMOs feel the need to adapt their websites and services for mobile devices, although these adaptations are very cost intensive. Responsive web design (RWD) offers an efficient and practicable solution to address the plethora of different mobile devices with countless varying characteristics (scree-size, input, size, etc.). Moreover, the lack of evidence about the effects of websites employing RWD on mobile usability, as well as tourism information search behavior, raises questions both to practitioners and researchers. With this paper we investigate the efficiency, effectiveness and satisfaction when searching for and encountering tourism information on a smartphone on a responsive mobile tourism website compared to a mobile adaptive website. Through an experiment, 20 participants interacted with two representative websites and fulfilled specific information retrieval tasks. Effects between both websites could be derived, although differences were not consistently significant, and well-applied heuristics failed to measure user behavior systematically. Overall the responsively designed website performed better but failed to distinguish itself in terms of satisfaction and perceived usability.

The Effects of Tourism Information Search using Smartphone on Satisfaction and Continuous Usage Intention

The Effects of Tourism Information Search using Smartphone on Satisfaction and Continuous Usage Intention

Does personality predict tourism information search and feedback behaviour?

There is little research on how personality traits influence information search and feedback behaviour of tourism information consumers. Using various online and offline information and feedback sources, this study contributes to the literature by considering how personality influences Taiwanese view pre-trip and on-site information sources’ ability to provide desired information before and during the trip and whether post-trip feedback channels are suitable feedback instruments. Even though personality alone may not fully explain tourism information search behaviour, hierarchical regression analyses showed the usefulness of Big Five personality traits in this aspect. Openness to experience and conscientiousness traits particularly stood out. Openness to experience significantly affects perception of word-of-mouth-related sources and conscientiousness for less accessible sources. Extraversion and neuroticism negatively predict popular culture sources. These outcomes might be due to the attributes of information sources or feedback channels.

An Empirical Taxonomy of Tourist Information Search Strategies

An empirical taxonomy of tourists’ information search strategies is developed based on a survey of a large sample of tourists. The taxonomy reveals five different information search strategies. Each search strategy consists of the combination of individual information sources used by tourists in pre-trip planning. The five information search strategies are related to select tourist demographic characteristics, trip activities, accommodation choices, and general media preferences. The results indicate a multivariate relationship between tourist demographics and information search strategies. Furthermore, information search strategies are related to tourists’ preferred trip activities and choice of accommodations. Implications of the taxonomy for tourism marketing and research are discussed.

Web users’ behavioural patterns of tourism information search: From online to offline

This paper presents a conceptual framework of Web users’ engagement in tourism information search for a comprehensive understanding of their integrated online and offline search behaviour. The information search experiences are characterised as a process constituting some common elements: prior knowledge and searching experiences, online searching strategies, processing and recording information, barriers to online searching, reasons for ending an online search, summarising information, exchanging information and searching for more information through other sources. Such behaviour goes beyond the scope of information searching and captures the other activities, including information processing, utilising and disseminating. The grounded theory research method is employed as an inductive investigative process in which the authors construct the framework by systematically collecting and analysing data. The aim of this research method is to build a theory. The data sets consist of both semi-structured in-depth interviews with subjects and their field observations based on online searching. A theoretical model incorporating 10 propositions is proposed for future testing.

Web-Based GIS in Tourism Information Search : An analysis of the effect of socioeconomic characteristics on perception and behavior

Among the Internet applications, Web-based spatial data service (WebGIS), e.g. Google Maps, Yahoo Maps, and Bing Maps, has promised a new generation of information platforms and expanded the ways in which travel information can be accessed. However, we know little about the population who seeks tourism and recreation information through WebGIS. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to delineate the tourism-information seekers’ perceptions toward WebGIS and their use behaviors associated with tourism situations and patterned by user socioeconomic characteristics. An electronic self-administered survey was developed for the investigation. ANOVA was employed to conduct analyses. Sex showed to be influential in information search behavior. In comparison to other factors, the factor of age differentiated the behaviors and perceptions toward WebGIS in a wide spectrum. In general, education as a factor distinguished the use motive and interest areas. The factor of income levels among respondents showed little influence in the attitude toward or preference for WebGIS services.

The usage of online tourist information sources in tourist information search: an exploratory study

Tourist information search is a complex issue. This study contributes to the understanding of tourist information sources by comparing three online sources, that is, non-commercial travel blogs, Wikipedia and Yahoo! Knowledge+. A common denominator of a popular tourist information source is the presence of credible travel-oriented information, preferably in the form of personal experience or, if not so, carefully edited information. Entertainment and social networking elements can further enhance the information sources. If the destination is expensive and friends and relatives are not familiar with it, sources with strong networking element such as travel blog or edited information such as Wikipedia will be plus points. Online and non-online sources will co-exist and leisure tourists will continue to use a mixture of both to suit their needs in the foreseeable future.

Use of online versus offline information sources by tourists

Understanding how tourists acquire knowledge is crucial to developing effective marketing communication strategies. With the advent of the Internet, tourist information search strategies have changed drastically. However, few studies have analysed their new search patterns in depth. This article analyses preferred information sources including both personal and impersonal sources. The trade-off between online and offline sources is also examined. Results indicate that travellers seek more information online when the source is impersonal. For personal sources and for long, expensive and foreign trips, offline sources still remain crucial.

Photograph, Information Search and Tourism Marketing

In the age of globalization, being aware of tourist information search behavior is a fundamental factor for marketing management to decide and provide an effective marketing and service to their potential travelers. As information search is a first step in travel decision making therefore, marketers can provide proper information and influence travelers to make decision. Understanding Pre-purchase information search behavior has been an important concern for researchers on both theoretical and applied ground since early nineteen century till present. The provided information can be text based, image based (photograph) and voice based. The overall purpose of this paper is to better understanding of tourist data preference while searching for information. It explains how important and useful photograph can be in tourism information search and marketing in general. It is also shows the power of photograph to show the place characters. The data was collected from 204 tourists all over the world as well as related available secondary sources. The result of the study can be useful for tourism marketers to provide information related to tourists needs and desire.

A new perspective on tourist information search: discussion in couples as the context

PurposeInformation‐search for vacation decision‐making can occur in two different contexts: an individual one, in which one forms one's preferences, and a social one in response to discussions with partners and family members. This paper focuses on the latter.Design/methodology/approachBy means of a longitudinal study the research investigates the main topics of discussion in couples, and the information sources couples use in their discussion. Furthermore, the research investigates whether the information sources used depend on the nature of the sub‐decision – search‐determined or experience‐determined – the couples discuss.FindingsThe research finds that there is considerable discussion between partners and that the amount of discussion varies in relation to the type of sub‐decision. During these discussions, the use of different information sources is widespread. More generally, the study confirms the overall importance of the social context: information sources used in the social context are different from sources used in the individual context. The research does not confirm the expected relationship between the nature of a sub‐decision and the type of information source used. As the decision process proceeds over time, the role of objective information sources increases in discussions.Research limitation/implicationsCompared with the classical individual approach to researching tourist information search, the social context of information‐searching needs other market research data, to provide insight into the topics of discussion. Tourism marketing messages in a social decision context should be directed to significant others, as these messages are likely to be used as important information sources during the joint vacation decision process in couples. In this respect, the use of electronic word‐of‐mouth offers new opportunities for vacation marketing.Originality/valueA new perspective on information search: the relevance of social contexts.

Web-based GIS in tourism information search: Perceptions, tasks, and trip attributes

People’s strategies and choices to utilize tourism information have shifted dramatically over the years following ubiquitous access to the Internet. Despite the fact that many tourism information searches on the Internet involve geo-spatial information through WebGIS, little is known about tourists’ behavioral patterns with this media. The purpose of this study was to examine tourists’ trip situations, tasks, and perceptions toward WebGIS. An electronic survey method and multiple regression technique were used to collect and analyze data. Findings indicate that ‘usefulness’ and ‘playfulness’ were the key factors that determined the level of usage and interaction. Users showed distinct behavioral tendencies under different trip situations and task performances when searching tourism information using WebGIS.

Tourism and online photography

This paper documents the use of online travel photo-sharing technologies among Hong Kong residents. The advent of Web 2.0 is changing fundamentally the tourist information search and destination choice process. Yet, to date, no study has documented Web 2.0 usage levels and preferences for certain media for posting travel photographs across an entire community. This study reveals that some 89% of pleasure travelers take photographs and that 41% of them posted their photographs online. Social network sites (SNSs), instant messaging, online photo albums and personal blogs were the most popular media used. In general, people who post photographs online tend to be younger, better educated, and earn a higher income than those who do not. The study determined that most people also use multiple media platforms to disseminate their images. Cluster analysis based on the four major styles of online platform identified five cohorts of users who differed in number and type of media used, demographic profile and travel motive. Implications for destination promotion are discussed.

Geographical Information and Landscape History in Tourism Communication in the Age of Web 2.0. The Case of the Salt River Bay National Park in St. Croix of the U.S. Virgin Islands

Maps and other location‐based information have traditionally played an important role in the choice of holiday destination and the selection of sites to visit. Recently new technologies have changed the pattern of tourist information search and use, notably the Internet, mobile communications—foremost cellular telephony—and Global Positioning System (GPS). Focusing on a national park in the U.S. Virgin Islands, we take stock of available geographic data and their potential use in tourist communication. It is argued that Internet‐based neogeography offers strong potential for multilayered interpretation and dissemination to specific visitor groups. Due to a contested history and controversial designation of the area as a national park it is argued that caution must be taken in the interpretation and communication of especially historical maps and population data. Three possible user scenarios centered on visitor activities and information needs are presented. Finally, we conclude that there is a compelling need to develop quality content to satisfy visitor demands and thereby enable competitive advantage. This article results from the Danish Galathea 3 project “St. Croix in Past and Present” and has number P10 in the Galathea publication series.

The Effect of Prior Destination Experience on Online Information Search Behaviour

This research proposed and empirically tested a behavioural model of online tourist information search by integrating the consumer involvement concept, modes of cognitive processing and knowledge representation. The model identified two types of online information involvement: involvement measured by time spent online (degree of search) and by types of information sought (content of search). The results showed prior experience and knowledge with a destination influenced both by the content of search and the degree of search that a traveller engages in online while planning a trip. It appears that online search effort decreases and search content changes as a result of the different level of prior knowledge that a tourist brings to a search. The results will also have practical implications for the content, length and presentation of tourism websites that service iTravellers.

An exploratory investigation of web-based tourist information search behavior

The primary objective of this study is to further understand web-based search behavior in relation to tourist information. Using a small sample (94 subjects), a field study that examined the search sessions of on-line users was undertaken in a laboratory. The search action data were subsequently collected and empirically analyzed, and the search styles and sophisticated navigation techniques were identified. The results indicate that the search engine plays an important role in search behavior. In light of our findings, we draw managerial implications relating to tourist information searches in the context of the Web, and offer suggestions for future research.