Innovation Systems in Nordic Tourism

Abstract

This research is on tourism and innovation in the Nordic countries. The aim is to outline the constituents of success in the industry and what can be done to facilitate and maintain success through policy measures. The research draws on theories of innovation systems and review of innovation policy in the Nordic countries. This theoretical approach is combined with detailed case studies, two from each country, on a successful tourism venture or destination that has been in operation for a minimum of five years. Over 60 interviews were conducted and subsequently transcribed and analysed, whence emerged a picture of the innovation systems underpinning their success and material that could be used to substantiate a critique on current Nordic tourism policy measures. The conclusion details seven general policy frameworks that need to be further developed and researched. These are of value to both public policy makers, private entrepreneurs and academics as they give an outline for policy making, ideas for corporate development and areas of future research interests for tourism studies in the Nordic context. In addition the research is important to Nordic innovation studies generally, as it places tourism systems as a relevant and worthwhile focus area.