Tourism has been a key industry in Massachusetts for decades and continues to be the profitable sector in Cape Cod. In fact, the Chamber of Commerce estimates that the travel and tourism industry accounts for over $1 billion in direct spending within the area every year.
Like every sector, travel and tourism have been revolutionized by the development of technology. In areas like Cape Cod, where there is a heavy economic reliance on tourism, it’s essential to embrace these changes, rather than shy away from them. To get a deeper understanding of how businesses need to adapt, take a look at how technology has changed the tourism industry.
1. Mobile Devices
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Nowadays, almost everyone has the ability to access information in nanoseconds. From booking a vacation to finding the best restaurant; you can find the data you need by tapping your phone screen. When people are in a new or unfamiliar area, their reliance on mobile devices increases. It follows, therefore, that travel-related businesses that rely on tourists and vacationers for their trade need to focus heavily on digital marketing. Indeed, enterprises that aim to target tourists will be largely doomed to failure if they neglect this aspect of engagement.
2. Virtual Reality
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For vacationers, a major element of their longed-for trip is the anticipation. Researching the must-see sights, planning your vacation wardrobe and creating your itinerary are all part of the process. The tourism industry is now using augmented and virtual reality to enhance this aspect of vacationing.
People can take a virtual tour of their destination, hotel and even their airplane cabin months before they depart. As well as enticing prospects to become fully paid-up customers, this form of technology is becoming a critical part of peoples’ vacations.
3. Wearable Tech
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From smartwatches and fitness trackers to body-worn cameras and health monitors; wearable technology has become a big business. As it becomes increasingly ubiquitous, tourism-based businesses are making the most of the trend. Tourist venues, such as theme parks or exhibitions, are introducing wearable wristbands to monitor visitor behavior, while experience-based attractions are offering guests the opportunity to hire wearable tech to record their adventures.
Understanding Changing Business Environments
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The business landscape is continually evolving. To succeed, managers and owners need to respond to evolving business environments or, better still, be leading the change. The travel and tourism industry isn’t the only sector to be revolutionized by technology, but the changes are particularly important for organizations operating within the sector.
Indeed, with such stunning natural landscapes and picturesque views, Cape Cod will inevitably continue to draw people to its shores. Amongst the many reasons to visit the area, is the following:
- World-class beaches
- Exquisite fresh seafood
- Breath-taking whale watching excursions
- Hidden swimming holes
- Proximity to other superb destinations, including Martha’s Vineyard
For business owners, CEOs, managers, and marketers in Cape Cod and other tourist hotspots, adapting to changes in the commercial landscape is critical to success. With so much of your career dependent on one seasonal industry, success depends on your business knowledge, skillset and experience.
To thrive in the competitive, and arguably fragile, travel industry, it’s essential to have the right mix of academic qualifications, professional experience, and industry insight. Fortunately, the top MBA programs make valuable and in-demand qualifications accessible. When you enroll in a reputable online MBA course, for example, you can expand your skillset and acquire the knowledge you need to compete in a cut-throat industry.
While becoming a Master of Business Administration is only advantageous for professionals within the travel sector, it is certainly the most relevant industry to Bay Staters who live or work in Cape Cod. With over 5 million tourists visiting the area every year, successful travel industry professionals can carve out an illustrious and impressive career within this thriving sector.
Enhance Your Career with Online Study
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Choosing to undertake an advanced qualification can be a difficult decision. If you’re apprehensive about taking a career break or giving up your income to study full-time, it’s not surprising that you’re having doubts about whether further study is right for you.
Fortunately, technology has enhanced the education sector too. With the chance to enroll in top programs online, you can combine academic study with your existing occupation. Giving you the opportunity to progress in your chosen career and maintain your current position, undertaking an MBA online is an increasingly attractive option for those who want to capitalize on the opportunities in Cape Cod.