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Article Information:
Title:
Information technology in peripheral small and medium hospitality enterprises: strategic analysis and critical factors
Author(s):
Dimitrios Buhalis, Hilary Main
Journal:
International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management
Year:
1998
Volume:
Issue:
Page:
198 - 202
ISSN:
0959-6119
DOI:
10.1108/09596119810227811
Publisher:
MCB UP Ltd
Document Access:
Abstract:
Small and medium hospitality organisations (SMHOs) are increasingly recognized as pivotal in the ability of destinations to benefit from tourism as well as to satisfy tourism demand. However, it is recognized that they are often marginalized from the mainstream tourism industry, owing to their inability and reluctance to utilize information technologies (ITs). This paper is based on research undertaken in peripheral SMHOs, located in rural Wales destinations, Alpine French resorts and the Greek Aegean Islands. It explores the factors determining the adaptation of ITs by examining the stakeholders of small hospitality organizations, as well as the push and pull factors they exercise. It also illustrates a number of catalysts for ITs penetration and future trends in the hospitality industry, e.g. disintermediation and mass customization. Argues that SMHOs which fail to adapt and utilize ITs will suffer competitive disadvantages and jeopardize the prosperity of destinations.
Keywords:
France, Greece, Hotels, Information technology, Travel, Wales
Article Type:
Research paper