Comparative Comparison of the Organizational Structure of Tourism in Iran and Italy and the Pathology of This Structure in Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Tourism, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran

2 Department of Tourism, Faculty of Tourism, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Context and Purpose: Iran and Italy, as two countries rich in historical, cultural, and natural attractions, are considered important global tourism destinations. However, the tourism industries in these two countries exhibit significant structural and functional differences. This study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of the tourism structures in Iran and Italy and to diagnose the existing challenges within Iran's tourism sector.
Design/methodology/approach: This research employed a mixed-method approach, including expert surveys, to identify 13 key factors hindering tourism development within Iran’s organizational tourism structure. The fuzzy cognitive mapping (FCM) technique and FCMapper software were utilized for data analysis.
Findings: The results indicate that frequent changes in organizational structures and policy-making centers, weaknesses in strategic planning, lack of adherence to a comprehensive development model, and restrictive regulations are the most significant barriers to tourism development in Iran. Due to their higher centrality in the network, these factors exert greater influence. Scenario analysis further reveals a moderate negative impact across all related factors, highlighting the necessity of simultaneous attention to these key issues for effective improvement.
Conclusion: Iran’s tourism organizational structure faces serious challenges due to frequent policy changes, inadequate planning, and restrictive regulations, which impede the sustainable development of the industry. In contrast, Italy’s tourism structure, characterized by greater stability and coordination, serves as a successful model. To enhance Iran’s tourism sector, decentralization of authority, increased local stakeholder participation, establishment of coordinating bodies, intersectoral collaboration, infrastructure development, simplification of regulations, specialist training, and targeted marketing are essential. The concurrent implementation of these strategies will promote sustainable development and enhance competitiveness.
Originality/value: This study employs fuzzy cognitive mapping to analyze the organizational tourism structures of Iran and Italy comparatively, identifying and diagnosing the key networked barriers to tourism development in Iran. This novel and practical approach provides valuable insights for improving Iran's tourism policy-making and organizational structure.

Keywords

References

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Tourism and hospitality marketing research
Volume 2, Issue 2 - Serial Number 3
Autumn and Winter
December 2024
Pages 63-88

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