Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine the key factors influencing the successful implementation of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in transforming tourism destinations into smart ecosystems. Through an in-depth case study of Fars Province, a prominent tourist hub in Iran, this research provides an empirical framework for understanding the drivers and barriers of IoT adoption in smart tourism.
Design/methodology/approach
A multi-method approach is employed in this study. Data are collected through a systematic literature review, interviews, and questionnaires. Scenario Wizard and MICMAC software are used for data analysis, with MICMAC identifying critical variables that impact IoT implementation. The study further develops two future scenarios based on favorable and critical conditions surrounding IoT adoption in tourism.
Findings
The MICMAC analysis reveals 14 key variables that significantly influence the implementation of IoT technologies for smart tourism in Fars Province. These variables serve as the foundation for constructing two potential future scenarios, offering insights into both favorable and challenging pathways for IoT adoption.
Originality/value
This research provides tourism stakeholders, particularly decision-makers in the field, with valuable tools for long-term strategic planning. By identifying the key factors driving IoT adoption and exploring potential future outcomes, the study empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions and actively contribute to the development of smart tourism ecosystems, promoting sustainable and prosperous tourism destinations.
This study aims to examine the key factors influencing the successful implementation of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in transforming tourism destinations into smart ecosystems. Through an in-depth case study of Fars Province, a prominent tourist hub in Iran, this research provides an empirical framework for understanding the drivers and barriers of IoT adoption in smart tourism.
Design/methodology/approach
A multi-method approach is employed in this study. Data are collected through a systematic literature review, interviews, and questionnaires. Scenario Wizard and MICMAC software are used for data analysis, with MICMAC identifying critical variables that impact IoT implementation. The study further develops two future scenarios based on favorable and critical conditions surrounding IoT adoption in tourism.
Findings
The MICMAC analysis reveals 14 key variables that significantly influence the implementation of IoT technologies for smart tourism in Fars Province. These variables serve as the foundation for constructing two potential future scenarios, offering insights into both favorable and challenging pathways for IoT adoption.
Originality/value
This research provides tourism stakeholders, particularly decision-makers in the field, with valuable tools for long-term strategic planning. By identifying the key factors driving IoT adoption and exploring potential future outcomes, the study empowers stakeholders to make informed decisions and actively contribute to the development of smart tourism ecosystems, promoting sustainable and prosperous tourism destinations.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Number of pages | 30 |
| Journal | The Journal of Tourism Futures |
| Early online date | 13 Jan 2026 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | E-pub ahead of print - 13 Jan 2026 |
UN SDGs
This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
-
SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities
Keywords
- futures study
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- smart tourism
- smart cities
- scenario analysis
- tourism technology integration
- tourism development
Fingerprint
Dive into the research topics of 'Smart tourism in the age of IoT: a futures study of Fars Province, Iran'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.Cite this
- APA
- Author
- BIBTEX
- Harvard
- Standard
- RIS
- Vancouver