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The Use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Managing High Arctic Tourism Sites: A Collective Action Perspective

Author

Listed:
  • Marta Bystrowska

    (Department of Earth Sciences, University of Silesia in Katowice, Bedzinska 60, 41-200 Sosnowiec, Poland)

  • Karin Wigger

    (Department of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Nord University Business School, Universitetsalléen 11, 8026 Bodø, Norway)

  • Daniela Liggett

    (Gateway Antarctica, University of Canterbury, Private Bag 4800, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand)

Abstract

Sustainable management of nature-based tourism sites is a pertinent issue in vulnerable Arctic environments. Arctic tourism operators often act collectively to protect their common interests of ensuring the sustainability of tourism sites. Nowadays, information and communication technology (ICT) is increasingly used to support these collaborative efforts, but the remoteness and risks associated with Arctic tourism operations challenge the success of such collective action. This study explores the use of ICT as a management tool for Arctic tourism sites to ensure their sustained quality. Drawing on a case study of an expedition cruise operators’ network in Svalbard, we explore how the use of ICT affects collective action and sustainable management of tourism sites. Our findings show that, through increased noticeability, the creation of artificial proximity and the development of new management practices, ICT can help to overcome the challenges for collective action that are posed by the Arctic environment. The use of ICT results in changes in a network’s relational and normative structures, which can as much add to as detract from the success of collective action. Our study indicates that the successful application of ICT depends on a high level of social capital, in particular norms, to guide interactions between ICT and network actors.

Suggested Citation

  • Marta Bystrowska & Karin Wigger & Daniela Liggett, 2017. "The Use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Managing High Arctic Tourism Sites: A Collective Action Perspective," Resources, MDPI, vol. 6(3), pages 1-18, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jresou:v:6:y:2017:i:3:p:33-:d:105855
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    References listed on IDEAS

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