Project Team: Ms. Roseline Dalton, Ms. Anne-Marie Lally ([email protected]), Dr. Patrick Lynch ([email protected])
This project was funded by the Fáilte Ireland Scholarship Programme. It had a lead time of 24 months, and was completed in September 2010.
The Project Aim
The purpose of this research is to understand the relational processes that underlie the formation and maintenance of a rural tourism network. Consequently the research objectives for this study are:
• To generate an understanding of the relational variables and norms that influence the development and maintenance of a collaborative rural tourism network.
• To develop a managerial model for involving rural tourism stakeholders in a collaborative rural tourism network.
Methods
This study adopted a qualitative case study approach which enabled the research team to explore the characteristics and components of experiences and for the experience development process in its natural setting. Multiple data collection techniques were utilised to triangulate the findings – in-depth interviews, document analysis, and observation.
Engagement Activity
This project involved significant engagement in the case site. The research team got unrestricted access to the CEO, the management team, employees and customers. The project findings were presented to the case company and also to the National Tourism Authority, Fáilte Ireland.
Impact
The major outcome of this study is an experience framework that defines, identifies and articulates the elements of cultural tourism experiences and offers a pragmatic ‘how to’ stages and activities of the experience development process.
RIKON 2013.