Enhancing Tourist Satisfaction through Smart Tourism Technologies: Insights from Diverse Regions of India

Abstract

Purpose: The objective of this study is to delve into the impact of Smart Tourism Technologies (STTs) attributes on tourist satisfaction in India, a country experiencing rapid development and characterized by its rich cultural, geographical, and economic diversity.

Design/Methodology/Approach: This study employed a two-step methodology. Initially, focused group discussions were conducted to gain a deeper understanding of tourists’ experiences and perceptions. Insights from these discussions were then used to develop a comprehensive survey. This survey was administered to 206 respondents across five diverse cities in India (Kerala, Maharashtra, Jamshedpur, Kolkata, Chandigarh,). The survey aimed to measure the adoption rate of STTs, the perceived attributes of STTs, and the specific and overall satisfaction levels of tourists.

Findings: The findings of the study indicate a positive correlation between the adoption of STTs and enhanced tourist experiences and satisfaction levels. Key attributes of STTs, including information availability, accessibility, interactivity, personalization, security, and convenience, were found to significantly influence tourist satisfaction.

Originality/Value: This study distinguishes itself through its extensive coverage of diverse regions and its in-depth analysis of the attributes and impacts of STTs within the Indian context. Notably, the study incorporates data from five different cities, providing a broader and more comprehensive perspective. By employing a mixed-methods approach, starting with focus group discussions followed by a survey, and adopting a multidimensional perspective, this study makes a significant contribution to the existing literature on smart tourism and tourist satisfaction.

Paper Type: Empirical Research Paper.