Current state of adoption of technology in Visitor Information Centres in Gauteng, South Africa

Abstract

Globally, Visitor Information Centres (VICs) are increasingly being recognised as touchpoints contributing to the success of tourism destinations. Recent developments in cutting-edge information and communication technologies (ICTs) provide immense opportunities for destination marketing organisations, particularly VICs mandated with dispensing timely, accurate and reliable information. Despite documented contribution of these ICTs in ‘Global North’ countries, there is a deficit in ‘Global South’ countries insofar as the adoption and usage of technology is concerned. This is evident in South Africa. This paper stems from exploratory research into VICs in Gauteng province, which is the economic powerhouse of South Africa. The main aim of the paper is to report on the level of adoption and usage of ICTs in VICs in the Gauteng province of South Africa. An exploratory survey design was used with 25 VIC staff respondents. The survey aimed to expose the level of adoption and usage, the most effective ICTs, training in ICTs and ICTs desired for future use. The results indicate that the adoption and usage of ICTs in Gauteng are still in the embryonic stages and trail behind the latest trends in ICT developments in tourism. Staff are aware of the benefits of newer ICTs such as social media platforms and interactive websites, and would like to use these in future. However, training on current ICTs is lacking.