Destination Design: A heuristic case study approach to sustainability-oriented innovation. (January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Scuttari, Anna; Pechlaner, Harald; Erschbamer, Greta
• Is Part Of: Annals of tourism research. Volume 86(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-01
• Subjects: Destination Design -- Participatory design -- Design thinking -- Place design -- Case study -- Dolomites UNESCO WHS; Tourism -- Periodicals
• DOI: 10.1016/j.annals.2020.103068
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0160-7383

Abstract

Abstract: The landscape of research outputs in tourism planning is fragmented and multi-disciplinary. Design as a meta-discipline has the power to integrate sectoral thought and inject creativity, non-linear thought and transdisciplinarity into planning processes, particularly when tackling sustainability challenges. This paper defines Destination Design as a novel framework capable of evolving the concepts of spatial and participatory planning using the design thinking cognitive style to address sustainability paradoxes. The features of Destination Design are explored through the unique case study of sustainability-oriented innovation in the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site. Results show that design thinking can be invaluable for pioneering pro-sustainability initiatives. Further, creative forms of engagement might encourage the acceptance and support of local transformations, but are difficult to implement. Highlights: Design as a meta-discipline integrates the sectoral thought of tourism planning. Creativity and non-linearity are both crucial in the sustainability transition. Destination Design includes place design, participatory design and design thinking. Mental maps and Visual Network Analyses innovatively describe Destination Design. Composite images work as prototypes for future Destination Design.