The Hawaii Tourism Authority wants to know what you think the future of tourism management in Hawaii should look like.
A team is conducting research on how the management of the state’s tourism industry can be shaped for long-term success. As part of the process, Better Destinations is seeking input from the community, stakeholders and representatives of the islands’ tourism industry.
“Tourism remains our state’s most important economic driver, promoting jobs and career growth for kama’āina and ensuring the well-being of our communities,” said Hawaii Tourism Authority Board Chair Mufi Hannemann. “We are not resting on our laurels. We must continue to evaluate our current systems, adapt to improve efficiency and plan ahead to support a vibrant industry and a future Hawaii.”
A website was launched to provide information about the study. The site includes an online public survey. Anyone with an interest in Hawaiian tourism is invited to participate in the survey and share their thoughts.
The study, due to be presented in May, aims to determine whether an alternative tourism management system is needed, identify areas in need of reform and propose policy ideas and modifications to the state tourism authority to provide better governance.
The study will also identify the organizational structure needed to support the strategic direction.
“This effort to bring together different perspectives is just the first step in the process,” said Hawaii Tourism Authority board member Stephanie Iona, who also co-chairs the Permitted Interaction Group on the management study. “With the valuable insights we receive from our community, decision makers, industry stakeholders and leaders in Hawai’i, [Hawai‘i Tourism Authority] the board and our team will work to build a stronger, more regenerative tourism model for our sustainable future.”
Better Destinations partnered with Maui-based Karey Kapoi LLC to provide a wide range of research input and participation.
The consulting team also includes Place Generation co-founders Frank Kuipers and Elke Dens, as well as Dennis Miller, executive vice president of leading tourism research firm SMARInsights.
“We are bringing together local and global expertise to explore opportunities to create a strong, responsive tourism management system in Hawaii,” said Kathy Ritter, Founder and CEO of Better Destinations. “Most importantly, we are engaging with the real experts—those who have a vested interest in the future of Hawaii’s tourism—to identify the best approach to providing long-term guidance and support for a regenerating tourism economy that benefits people and communities all over Hawai’i.”
Better Destinations has already begun engaging with tourism leaders and operators, government decision-makers, and representatives of community and cultural organizations on O’ahu, Kauai, Maui and the Big Island. The team also conducts interviews and meetings with tourism authority officials, board members and stakeholders.
A situational analysis will be shared in April detailing findings from desk research, US and international destination management case studies, interviews and workshops along with initial survey results.
“The information gathered through this survey will be instrumental in the strategic management of tourism for the betterment of the people and communities of Hawai’i throughout the state,” said Hawai’i Tourism Authority Interim President and CEO Daniel Nahoopii. “This work to tailor a governance structure that is designed specifically for Hawai’i and the needs of our community is a major undertaking, and we encourage all residents to participate.”
For more information on the study, click here.
