Back 19.12.2024 All news

Digital transformation and tourism management: Revolutionising the industry

If you decide today that you want to travel, all you need to do is open your phone and book a flight. You can pay for it digitally, check in online, and download your boarding pass. Whether you’re aware of it or not, this seamless experience is all possible thanks to the intersection of digital transformation and the tourism industry.

Tourism was one of the earliest sectors to embrace digital transformation, and the link between technological innovation and travel continues to shape how the industry evolves. In this article, we’ll explore how digital transformation interacts with tourism and how the MBA at BHMS with a specialisation in Digital Tranformation in Tourism Management could unlock exciting opportunities for your career.

What is digital transformation?

Digital transformation is the process of integrating digital technologies into all areas of business. It involves developing technologies that digitise services, making them more convenient, efficient, affordable, and accessible.

For businesses, staying competitive means leveraging digital tools to streamline processes, improve customer experiences, and adapt to evolving market demands. In tourism, this is especially critical as travellers increasingly seek personalised, sustainable, and tech-enabled services.

How is digital transformation used in tourism?

Tourism has undergone a profound digital transformation, redefining how travellers plan, book, and experience their journeys. Here are some of the key ways technology is reshaping the industry:

Understanding the Market

Tourism businesses analyse traveller behaviour, preferences, and trends to better meet customer demands with tailored experiences.

Enhancing Efficiency

Automation simplifies tasks like bookings, check-ins, and inventory, while AI chatbots manage routine queries, enabling staff to focus on personalised service. This boosts productivity and customer satisfaction.

Driving Local Economy

Digital platforms connect local businesses with global audiences, empowering small enterprises and fostering economic growth in communities.

Promoting Sustainability

Digital tools support UN SDGs by reducing waste, encouraging eco-friendly travel, and nurturing local entrepreneurship in tourism-dependent regions.

In an industry centred on customer satisfaction, digital transformation empowers businesses to deliver personalised, streamlined, and sustainable services that benefit both travellers and the environment.

What technologies drive digital transformation in tourism?

Digital transformation in tourism leverages a variety of innovative technologies to enhance operations and customer experiences:

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI chatbots and platforms like ChatGPT streamline trip planning and enhance personalisation.

Big Data Analytics

Analysing travel history and preferences helps businesses refine guest experiences.

Virtual & Augmented Reality (VR/AR)

VR/AR enables virtual tours for marketing and enriches on-site experiences.

Internet of Things (IoT)

IoT supports smart luggage tracking, personalised advertising, and improved experiences in smart hotels and transport.

Blockchain

Blockchain secures transactions, protects guest privacy, and fosters trust with decentralised data storage.

Why become an expert in digital transformation?

The tourism industry’s adoption of digital technologies is not just a trend; it’s an ongoing shift that requires specialised knowledge and skills. For professionals in the field, mastering the nuances of these technologies is becoming essential, making specialisations in digital transformation a vital step toward future-proofing their careers.

"In today’s complex business world, companies need agile and visionary leaders. Our MBA’s emphasis on practical skills, strategic thinking and leadership development will enable you to meet those demands." - Judith Schädler Wurster MBA Programme Leader

Here are a number of skills that studying Digital Transformation in Tourism Management equips students with, giving them an edge when it comes to navigating and leading in this rapidly changing landscape:

Expertise in Emerging Technologies

Proficiency in AI, blockchain, and VR/AR makes professionals invaluable for driving innovation and maintaining a competitive edge.

Leadership in Transformation

Companies need leaders who can oversee digital projects and guide strategic changes across hotels, travel agencies, and tourism boards.

Enhancing Customer Strategies

Digital experts craft personalised, sustainable strategies to boost customer engagement and loyalty.

Promoting Sustainability

Trained professionals leverage digital tools to advance eco-friendly tourism, reduce waste, and foster sustainable travel ecosystems.

How can you kick-start your career in digital transformation in tourism?

The MBA at BHMS offers a specialisation in Digital Transformation in Tourism Management, designed to equip students with cutting-edge skills in innovative technologies and strategies. The programme combines theoretical knowledge with real-world case studies to deepen understanding and develop leadership capabilities.

By studying in the heart of Switzerland, not only will you get to live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world, but you’ll be immersed in the birthplace of hospitality, renowned for its tourism innovation. You’ll graduate after just twelve months with a dual degree from Robert Gordon University and have the option to embark on a six-month internship, either in Switzerland or worldwide.

Choosing a specialisation in Digital Transformation and Tourism Management sets you up for a successful career, with all the tools you need to become a trailblazer in this ever-evolving field.

Discover more about how studying at BHMS can help you achieve your career goals!