The purpose of innovation needs clarity and buy-in from all levels and users, so as to avoid fear and suspicion of technology coming in to replace jobs held by humans
When this issue lands on your lap in March, I would have just crossed my 18th year with TTG Asia Media – an auspicious number, I know. I often get asked what is keeping me this long in the same job and industry. My reply – I’m covering an ever-changing travel and tourism landscape, so there is never a dull day.
However, change is not always welcomed and understood. My interviews the past month with industry leaders have highlighted the pressing need to evolve operations, especially amid manpower challenges. Pan Pacific Hotels Group is undertaking a million-dollar job transformation exercise that involves time-motion studies and data scientists. Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority is stepping up its outreach to a growing number of local hoteliers that need guidance on their innovation journey.
The purpose of innovation needs clarity and buy-in from all levels and users, so as to avoid fear and suspicion of technology coming in to replace jobs held by humans. The implementation process also needs patience, and the outcomes paired with rewards for staff who made an effort to evolve with their employer for greater productivity.
Positive changes in travel and tourism are not limited to just digitalisation for efficiency. With consumers paying more attention to responsible travel, destinations must also move in that direction. Laos, for one, has just completed its four-year SUSTOUR Laos project to transform into a sustainable tourist destination (page 11). Indonesia’s Nglanggeran Tourism Village is also setting an example of how an entire community can benefit when tourism is developed with its people at the heart (pages 18 and 19).
We are merely scratching the surface of positive changes in this issue. So, tell me, isn’t this industry so interesting?
