Tourism Industry and Information Technology - Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards capturing key terms and definitions from the notes on how information technology shapes the tourism industry.

Tourism industry

Umbrella industry comprising organizations involved in producing and distributing travel and tourism products (transport, accommodation, attractions, food/beverage, intermediaries, recreation, and related government agencies).

Information technology (IT) in tourism

The use of electronics, computers, and communication technology to acquire, process, store, retrieve, disseminate, and apply information, enabling flow of information between suppliers and customers.

Info-structure

The IT-based information infrastructure that supports internal and external processes in tourism organizations.

Disintermediation

Elimination of intermediaries in travel transactions, enabling direct consumer-to-supplier dealings.

Re-intermediation

Introduction of new intermediaries (e.g., online travel agencies) that re-enter the distribution chain.

Online Travel Agencies (OTAs)

Web-based platforms that facilitate booking and selling travel products from multiple suppliers to consumers.

Metamediaries

Strategic alliance-based intermediaries that enable consumers to search partner databases and direct them to supplier sites; may charge for referrals; can bypass traditional OTAs.

Dynamic packaging

Process of assembling various travel products into a single package at the moment of consumer request, requiring instant information access and interaction.

Destination Marketing Organization (DMO)

Organization that markets a destination, providing destination-related information (often via websites) and adapting services to marketing realities.

Web 2.0

Web technologies based on user-generated content and social networking that enable consumer reviews and collaboration in tourism marketing.

Consumer reviews and blogs

User-generated content that influences perceptions and is often more credible and search-engine friendly than marketer content.

Tourism consumption process stages

The stages of tourism consumption: pre-consumption, consumption, and post-consumption, which are information-intensive and supported by IT.

Pre-consumption

Internet technologies used to obtain information for planning, formulating expectations, evaluating options, and communicating with providers before travel.

Virtual tours

3D representations allowing realistic previews of tourism products/services, aiding informed decisions before purchase.

Telepresence

Feeling of being transported to and present in a virtual environment, enabled by immersive 3D applications and VR.

Online customer support

Web-based support tools (FAQs, online request forms, email, real-time chat, instant messaging) used to assist consumers during planning and travel.

En route Internet access

On-trip Internet access providing anywhere, anytime connectivity via cafes, hotels, or mobile networks, enabling decision-making and transactions.

WAP

Wireless Application Protocol; technology for accessing internet content on mobile devices.

GSM

Global System for Mobile Communications; standard for mobile telephony supporting data and voice.

SMS

Short Message Service; text messaging used on mobile networks.

GIS

Geographic Information Systems; tools to capture, analyze, and present spatial information for location-based services.

GPS

Global Positioning System; satellite-based navigation to determine user location.

Location-based services (LBS)

Real-time services that tailor information to the traveler’s current location.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions; web pages addressing common customer questions.

Post-consumption

Activities after travel involving sharing, storing, and reliving experiences via virtual communities and social media.