From Information Behaviour of Independent Travellers to Requirements for Information Systems

Abstract

The complexity and dynamic nature of travelling offers many opportunities for technological support. But printed guidebooks remain the typical companion, despite many weaknesses. A guidebook’s reader does not know how information was gathered and selected, and which assumptions underlie the recommendations. Trip itineraries, hotels etc. might be perceived to differ strongly from the description given because the traveller’s preferences do not match the ones of the person giving the recommendation. It lies in the eye of the beholder what the terms “beautiful” or “difficult” mean. Guidebooks, due to their very popularity, may invoke an adverse effect on their recommended venues, as these are literally swamped by travellers, deteriorating the attracting features.