Decision criteria

Indicators

Structure of the sector

Emmer et al. (1993);

Pearce (1989);

Fyall and Garrod (2004);

Berné et al. (2012)

ICTs are notably changing the structure of the tourism distribution system.

ICTs facilitate access by intermediaries to current and potential customers.

ICTs increase vertical relationships.

ICTs increase horizontal relationships.

Power of tourism operators

Werthner and Klein (1999); Buhalis (2008);

Berné et al. (2012)

ICTs are substantially altering both the power position of the various participants in the industry and their share in the value chain.

ICTs allow greater participation by the end consumer in the different production-marketing phases of the tourism product, which alters the role of the different participants in the value chain.

In a scenario of extensive use of ICTs, the most important factor for improving the power position of any participant in the channel is the control and handling of information.

ICTs favour strategic alliances between companies.

ICTs allow a supplier to jump to traditional intermediaries (travel agencies and tour operators).

Production process and products

Buhalis (1998);

Berné et al. (2012)

ICTs are changing the production processes and the products of the tourism sector.

Information is the most important component for creating value.

ICTs make it possible to integrate services with the end consumer.

With the same service quality, ICTs have decreased production and distribution costs (efficiency).

ICTs provide a higher-quality tourism product.

ICTs facilitate the creation of more flexible products, which can be adapted to segments and individualised.

ICTs emphasise innovation in the sector.

ICTs facilitate the adoption of the best and good practices in the industry.

ICTs facilitate the production of global tourism products.