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The consumer sports electronic (CSE) market has been growing at an unprecedented rate, largely due to the advances made in microelectronics, communication technologies, high-level software, optoelectrics, micro-optics, bioengineering, and new materials. This paper proposes a structured process to enter this business sector for innovative, high-technology companies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four problems has been solved: the design engineering of ski, finding several parameters in underdetermined problem of mechanics, optimal flight control of ski-jumper and making a strategic, plan for a factory of bicycles. All are solved in the frames of one approach called Pareto-optimisation. Pareto-optimisation is a relatively new method of multi-objective optimisation that makes the job of experts making final decision much more transparent than in other multi-objective approaches involving the dialogue with operator. The problems solved are typical problems when multi-objective optimisation arises in engineering. Method demonstrated in this paper gives a powerful tool of multi-objective optimisation and enables statement and successful solution of such problems in practice of sports engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The last 20 years has witnessed an explosion of professional sporting and leisure activities, driven by consumers having more disposable income to spend, economic globalization, multi-channel 24 hour TV, the WWWeb and mobile telecommunications all hungry for content and information. It comes as no surprise then, that science and engineering have already embraced these opportunities with the advent of new disciplines like sports nutrition, sports psychology and the latest one onto the scene, sports engineering. This paper analyses some of the recent and likely future developments, and on this basis puts forward the view that sports engineering will be a transforming agent for the Sports & Leisure Industry well into the 21st Century. The yardstick for these developments will be considerations of sustainability, briefly introduced here in analytical categories, and their resulting innovation potentials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

System analysis and design is an engineering technique which is widely used in industrial projects to ensure a solution is reached which fulfills the requirements of the user. The same technique has been used in this research for the design and implementation of a cricket bowling system which has been designed with both existing technology and the requirements of players and coaches in mind. The structured analysis and design methodology has been teamed with an object oriented approach to provide a component based solution which includes a bowling machine able to recreate any common bowling delivery, a visualization to provide temporal and spatial information about the delivery and an independent user interface to ensure robustness. This papers looks in more detail at the design and analysis methodologies used to create this solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shock-absorbing layers perform vital roles in the user comfort, safety and ball interaction characteristics of synthetic sports pitches. The layer typically comprises a porous composite of granulated recycled rubber bound in a polyurethane resin, compacted to form a flat continuous pad upon which the carpet is laid. A lack of published information regarding sports shockpads has prompted research at Loughborough University that aims to investigate the fundamental aspects of shockpad layers, namely their design, construction, characteristic behavior, and test methods. This paper outlines the findings of a detailed study investigating the effect of mix design variables on shockpad properties. Primary mix design variables, binder content, bulk density and rubber size distribution, were varied individually in industry standard shockpads produced using a reproducible hand-construction method. A comparison of tensile strength, ball rebound measurements and Clegg Hammer impact behaivior, showed marked influence of these variables over shockpad performance. The dominance of smaller sized rubber particles in a 2–6mm rubber size produced a softer shockpad (lower Clegg Impact Values), higher tensile strength and slightly decreased ball rebound resilience (more energy absorbed). Higher binder contents increased shockpad strength but had no effect on ball rebound or Clegg Impact Values. Increasing the bulk density of shockpads increased the shockpad tensile strength and decreased Clegg Impact Values (i.e. softer). Further work is ongoing to assess the effect of other design and construction variables. Testing to assess the effect of various carpets placed above the shockpad is also ongoing to assess the whole pitch system΄s performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bobsleigh runners are a critical factor for success in bobsleigh races. It is very important to use runners which generate a minimum frictional loss in contact with ice. As other studies show, the pressure greatly influences the coefficient of friction between steel and ice. In literature, there are indications for a decreasing coefficient of friction with increasing pressure as well as for an increasing coefficient of friction. This paper presents a method to measure the coefficient of friction μ between steel and ice. The normal pressure p on the sample was increased continuously. It was shown, that there is a minimum coefficient of friction for an optimum pressure value popt. Results were transferred to bobsleigh engineering. A molding method was developed to examine the surface of the ice, in particular the trace a runner generates in the bobsleigh track. A highly precise impression material was used and impressions were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The actual pressure between runner and ice was estimated according to SEM analysis. Comparing the actual pressure with laboratory results, design recommendations for a new bobsleigh runner were determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

InnoBay is a project sponsored by the Bayerische Forschungsstiftung (a none-profit sponsor for research and development). Goal is the invention of a new bobsled. Involved in the project team are faculties of mechanical engineering and sport science of the Technische Universitaet Muenchen, industrial partners and the Bavarian Bobsled Association. The partners analyse different topics like the interaction between athletes and sports equipment, the aero dynamical behaviour of crew and bobsled as well as problems concerning production. The Institute of Machine Tools and Industrial Management (iwb) is responsible for the manufacturing of the runners. They are important parts of the bobsled, because they significantly determine the runtime. Due to their slender and complex geometry they are difficult to manufacture. During the project various criteria like the choice and order of the production processes or necessary clamping systems will be evaluated regarding their influence on the runtime. In combination with the results of other subprojects, dealing with material selection and geometry optimisation, new bobsled runners will be designed, manufactured and tested. This paper highlights the planned activities and presents first results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sports and leisure area is an extensive field of application for fiber reinforced plastics (FRP). The remarkable material and manufacturing properties like high stiffness and strength at low density, corrosion and chemical resistance as well as the possibility to realize complex geometrical shapes exceed the possibilities of conventional structural materials, like metals. While a few decades ago steel was substituted by aluminum as chassis material for racing bikes primarily due to the considerably lower density, nowadays, FRP, and therein especially carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP), appear to be the trend setting material nowadays. The application of FRP in load bearing structures, such as bike chassis, is more complex and demands a very close interaction between all disciplines involved in the development process such as material science, design, manufacturing and testing. This paper intends to highlight the potential of CFRP for ultra-light chassis applications in an adequate structural design by considering the Canyon Carbon Ultimate F10 racing bike chassis as one of today΄s lightest and stiffest racing bike chassis worldwide. After a brief introduction into FRP and CFRP a comparison of the anisotropic CFRP with conventional isotropic metals is shown. An overview of the requirements for road and racing bike chassis is given and results of finite element design analyses are presented to show the influence of the lay-up configuration on the frame stiffness. Finally, a comparison with the leading aluminum and CFRP racing bike chassis shows an outstanding lightweight quality of the developed frame which proves the ultra-light weight potential of CFRP in the racing bike chassis sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper describes the results of ethnographic studies of fitness and sports activities, and introduces a framework for developing concepts and solutions in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of helmets has been proposed as a means of reducing the incidence of fatality in skiing and snowboarding. This paper presents results that suggest that while helmets may be effective at preventing minor injuries, they have not been shown to reduce the overall incidence of fatality in skiing and snowboarding even though as many as 40% of the population at risk are currently using helmets. The results indicate that the use of a helmet will indeed influence the primary cause of death, but perhaps not the ultimate outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cricket bowling is a complex skill which cannot easily be re-created using machines. Bowling machines are used by players of all standards to provide an unlimited number of deliveries, launched towards the batsman in a repeatable manner for training purposes. However they have a number of limitations which results in them not being used as extensively or as productively as they could be if they were more realistic. The purpose of this paper is to explore the requirements of players and coaches when considering the ideal bowling machine and the use of the systems engineering approach of Quality Function Deployment (QFD) to ensure a novel bowing system fully caters for these needs. A state of the art bowling system is being designed at Loughborough University using this methodology; a prototype machine has been built and tested at the England and Wales Cricket Board΄s National Cricket Centre. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper gives an overview of the history of the application of computers in sports and of current research activites in this field. Consequences for university education in sports related disciplines are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent trends in information and communication technologies (ICT) and sensor electronics offer new and fascinating options for computer-supported training (CST). Particularly miniaturization and integration of several functions within one device (e. g., smartphone or PDA) offer new options for the documentation and analysis of training data in sport. In order to plan, document and analyze outdoor endurance training procedures many parameters can be assessed, e. g., stress and strain indicators like velocity, acceleration, work, power, rate of perceived exertion (RPE), heart rate (HR), and lactate. The purpose of this paper is to describe the procedure of developing and testing a prototype that integrates assessment and further analysis of GPS data, performance data, HR, and RPE. The available products are analyzed and a first step to a solution is presented using the following components: Garmin GSMMAP 60 CS, Polar HR monitor S720i (with special supplements for biking), and HP iPAQ h2210. First test with representative subjects are promising. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper the potentials of increasing the attractiveness of fitness workout by integrating information technologies into fitness equipment will be discussed. User needs will be identified, existing solutions will be examined, and the development of an innovative computer-supported fitness device will be presented as an example. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past decade, the United Kingdom has experienced a decline in the proportion of young people continuing with their education in the physical sciences through to university level. In general, young people believe these subjects to be `boring΄ and irrelevant to their everyday lives. The image of the physical sciences is a serious concern to the UK Government since in order to maintain the UK΄s position as a technological leader in the world economy, a continual flow of high calibre graduates is essential. Numerous initiatives have been undertaken to encourage young people to study the physical sciences with varying degrees of success. This paper discusses one successful initiative coordinated and delivered by the Sports Engineering Research Group from the University of Sheffield. A series of interactive lectures and workshops were devised to explore how modern science and technology plays an ever increasing role in sport. In just two years, more than 13,000 young people took part in the initiative during 120 events across the UK. The impact of the initiative was monitored and evaluated throughout its duration by collating questionnaire data. Responses from the questionnaires, as well as other forms of feedback, showed the use of sport to be highly effective in terms of engaging young people΄s interest. The project demonstrated that the physical sciences need not be taught in a manner that disengages young people; by using examples and demonstrations from the world of sport, its perception can be one of interest and fascination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arguably the performance of elite athletes today has almost as much to do with science, as it does with training. Traditionally the measurement of elite athlete performance is commonly done in a laboratory environment where rigorous testing of biomechanics and physiology can take place. Laboratory testing however places limits on how the athlete performs, as the environment is sufficiently different to the training environment. In addition, performance characteristics are further augmented during competition when compared to regular training. By better understanding athlete performance during the competition and training environment coaches can more effectively work with athletes to improve their performance. The testing and monitoring of elite athletes in their natural training environment is a relatively new area of development that has been facilitated by advancements in microelectronics and other micro technologies. Whilst it is a logical progression to take laboratory equipment and miniaturize it for the training and competition environment, it introduces a number of considerations that need to be addressed. In this paper the use and application of inertial devices for elite and sub-elite sporting activities are discussed. The capacity of accelerometers and gyroscopes to measure human motion thousands of times per second in multiple axis and at multiple points on the body is well established. However interpretation of this data into well-known metrics suitable for use by sport scientists, coaches and athletes is something of a challenge. Traditional brute force techniques such as achieving dead reckoning position and velocity by multiple integration are generally regarded as an almost impossible task. However novel derivative measures of performance such as energy expenditure, pattern recognition of specific activities and characterisation of activities into specific phases of motion have achieved greater success interpreting sensor data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the design and development of measuring units in elite sport the request for high objectivity, reliability and validity of the results creates high requirements for the construction of the specific devices which usually are not covered by comemercially available systems. But only a sufficiently exact simulation of the competition conditions enables the researcher to evaluate the results with respect to the performance prerequisites of the sport in question and the actual training state resp. athletic shape of the athlete. This refers to the sport specific movement patterns as well as to the robustness caused by the interaction between athlete and measuring unit. The paper presents solutions of selected measuring units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As launch and flight monitors become more prevalent in retail and research locations the need for fitting golf equipment has increased. In this paper, the fitting of golf clubs is discussed using a calibration club from which performance of other clubs is predicted. In order to do this, extensive testing, both robot and player, was completed building a database of club responses as a function of ball speed, backspin, and launch angle. From the trajectory data the best fit club for a player was determined. For drivers, the fitting simply consists of maximizing the length of the ball΄s flight and roll. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes an evaluation method of long and short shaft of golf club by real swing. Head speed of the club, stability of direction of a ball, reliability of impact at the sweet spot and feeling of the club under the swing are used for the evaluation. First the swing is analysed by four link model and head speed and torque under the swing are calculated by Newton-Euler΄s method. Then difference of swing by short and long shaft club is discussed for high and middle level golfer. Next stability of direction and reliability of impact at the sweet spot are measured and these mean values and distributions are obtained. Questionnaire of feeling of the club of swing are performed and these data are statistically analyzed and obtained principal component and coefficient of correlation of each item. From these data, the long and short shafts of golf club are evaluated by evaluation function which would be decided by players requirement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of the research carried out during the expedition of the Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV) in the south face of the Mount Everest. The objective of the study was to evaluate the modification of the thermal properties of two mountain boots worn during the expedition. Both boots were tested before and after the expedition using the laboratory Textile Transmission Test (TTT). This test provides information about the global thermal isolation of the footwear, the global water vapour resistance of the footwear, and the water absorption capability. A breathable/waterproof sock is used to study the transport of water. Two different models of boot were worn by the subjects (One of them developed with a high thermal isolation and the other commercial). The hours of use were 175 (60 estimated kilometers) and the mean environmental conditions were, temperature 5°C and humidity 36% RH. The results of the study showed statistically significant differences in the dry thermal insulation and the wet heat exchange, but not in the global water transfer and absorption of the boots. The results of this study show that actually there is a relevant degradation of the thermal properties with use of sport equipment for high altitudes, which can increase injury risk for sportsmen. This highlights the need to advance in the control of performance during the whole life cycle of the equipments for extreme conditions in order to reduce injury risk of on high altitude climbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) technologies are widely used in clinical populations to aid the reduction of limb oedema and for the prophylaxis of deep vein thromboses (DVT). IPC application within athletic populations is not however widespread. The main mechanism for the effectiveness of IPC is that it augments venous and arterial blood flow via the periodic inflation of external cuffs. We believe that this may be beneficial to the warmdown activities of athletes. The removal of waste products may help to reduce injury risk and the phenomenon of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). A new implementation of the technology has been developed to test the extent of any potential warm-down effects induced by IPC treatment in athletes. This paper presents a pilot study in which male participants were exposed to IPC following intensive exercise. The specific treatment comprised 60sec inflation and 60sec deflation of a calf-thigh three compartment sequential compression garment (ratio 70:65:60mmHg) on each leg. This cycle was implemented by an electric pump with the participants in the partially supine position. The recovery protocol was designed to assess the ability of IPC to reduce the symptoms of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) elicited by a high intensity repeated shuttle run. A 1 hour IPC treatment was implemented in this case. Vertical jump was used to identify any change in performance pre and post trial. Visual analogue scales were used +1, +24 and +48 hours after the tests to assess the presence of DOMS. During these tests, heart rate and blood pressure measurements were recorded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contact sports such as rugby demand high performance apparel capable of withstanding large stresses during game-play. In order to ensure that failures are minimised the fabric requires testing. Current British standards detail methods of tensile testing fabrics from bulk stock as opposed to fully manufactured garments. It is important for the sporting goods industry that tensile strength data is tested from panels of the made-up garment instead of material from bulk stock. Generally manufacturers are interested in the minimum force required for a garment to fail. This paper describes a protocol for tensile testing of made-up rugby shirts and their critical components. Summarised are findings from one full protocol test which illustrate typical strengths, and design weaknesses for a modern rugby shirt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This paper investigates the influence of footwear geometry on ground reaction forces (GRF) and perception of stability during locomotion. Method: 12 subjects walked on a treadmill ergometer ADAL wearing 5 different shoes models. A barefoot situation was added to the protocol, according to the literature as the best condition of stability. 3 data sets were recorded: GRF (Fx, Fy, Fz) were recorded at constant speed (CS) of 2, 4 and 6 km.h−1, and during transition phases (0 to 2, 0 to 4, 0 to 6 km.h−1). Transition phases (TP) were studied because gait transitions are characterized by a loss of stability. Two running conditions (8 km.h−1 at CS and 0 to 8 km.h−1 at transition) have completed this protocol. At CS, forces were recorded on 10 steps. In TP, maximal force peaks were retained. Then, the subjects filled in a questionnaire to evaluate, for each shoe, their sensations of: 1) stability during running and walking, 2) foot support, 3) heightening of the rearfoot, 4) width of the shoe at the heel, 5) general comfort, 6) cushioning. Geometrical parameters of the shoe were measured: heel counter dimensions, different widths of the sole, sole slopes, heights of upper on external malleolus… These 3 data groups were crossed with correlation matrix. Results: GRF exhibited significant differences between shoes: medial force peaks were more important in barefoot condition and with the shoe which was considered by the subjects as stable in the walking condition. When we added the running condition, there were significant differences between this shoe and all the other conditions (with shoes and barefoot). These results could suggest that a better stability could be associated with more important medial force peaks. Correlations between GRF data, perception of the subjects and shoe measurements brought to the conclusion that there are different parameters of the shoe which could influence the stability: the sole slope, the height of upper on external malleolus and the inside width of the sole at the heel. These results show that stability sensations and biomechanical measurements are bound. Further investigations will be suggested to correlate these preliminary results with center of pressure path in order to validate that GRF could be useful to evaluate stability of the shoe or not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of ICTs in tourism has produced a new way of conducting business. Distribution strategies were reformulated and business processes reengineered. The eCommerce growth has been substantial, with tourism companies being among those who have invested heavily in technology during the Internet escalation. The Internet enhances the marketing function of most tourism organisations significantly, as the new channel provided companies with a wealth of opportunities to enhance their business operations and to stimulate sales. However, the significant amounts of money invested, prompted management teams to evaluate their Return On Investment (ROI). Hence e-metrics has emerged as tools for measuring online performance and calculating on line ROI. However, following the Internet 'bubble burst', organisations have been very cautions about further investments. This paper examines the issues related to e-metrics implementation in the tourism sector and identifies best practice in the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates how information and communication technologies (ICT), particularly the Web, can enhance the role that Meeting, Incentives, Conference/Convention. and Exhibition (MICE) properties play in local economic development (LED) processes. The complex links between ICT, MICE, and LED, are explored through an extensive literature review, a website audit, and in-depth interviews with key players in the New Zealand (NZ) MICE industry. Our findings reveal that the Web has considerable, but largely untapped, potential to facilitate links between MICE properties and local economies. We argue that for this potential to be met effective strategies must be adopted, based on careful planning, and the fundamental realisation that the Web is much more than simply a marketing tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is a contribution to the literature on the future of travel agents in the industry supply chain. It reports on WebMAIL -- a communication-distribution model that is an adaptive response to the threat of disintermediation (and associated challenges) in Australia. The initiative is unique in that it is a response by the sector's industry body rather than by the individual enterprises which comprise the sector. Also, while the technology underlying WebMAIL is relatively simple, its business model is innovative in making the suppliers, (the source of various economic threats), fund the entire system. Success with this business model suggests that in Australia the travel agent sector still adds sufficient value to retain its important role in the supply chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the current heterodoxy of tourism-SME and micro-business approaches to customer relationship management (CRM) on the Web and analyses websites of a purposive sample of Welsh tourism-SMEs selected from VisitWales, the new Wales Tourist Board Destination Management System (DMS). The study evaluates the appropriateness of applying the Nassar (2003) model to Welsh tourism-SME websites. Modifications to Nassar's model reduce the number of features, focusing on three levels of functionality. Level 1 is fundamental comprising Access, Information and Design. Level 2 relates to e-commerce functionality which requires consideration and cost-benefit analysis by individual businesses. Level 3 considers approaches to CRM, which is notably absent from the websites surveyed. The development of customised CRM solutions appropriate to the heterodoxy of tourism-SMEs enabling product development in the minds of potential customers and the enhancement of customer loyalty is a major business opportunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hotel companies have recognized that Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are increasingly important not only in minimising costs and maximizing revenues but also in facilitating guest experiences and enhancing operational efficiency at all levels. Despite the significant ICTs investments during the last decade, the actual business benefit of better technology continues to be questioned by hoteliers, The key objective of this paper has been investigated the perception of the actual impact of hotel managers' own view on ICT investments. The result shows the comparison of expected and actual benefit achievement for each type of investment objectives. With the help of factor analysis a Benefit Scorecard has been proposed as an appropriate strategic and operational tool for evaluating ICT investments in the hospitality industry thereby enhancing the ability of hotel operators to realise the full benefits in order to maximise the value of ICTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decipher is an online clearinghouse for tourism business intelligence and research. It has been developed collaboratively by the Cooperative Research Centre for Sustainable Tourism and various State Tourism Commissions in Australia since 1999. The Decipher system will be ready for public launch at the end of 2003, with the principle target markets being: small and medium tourism enterprises (SMTEs); local tourism associations (LTAs): and regional tourism organisations (RTOs). Decipher itself represents a substantial technological innovation for the Australian tourism industry, and now faces the challenge of adoption by its markets. This paper argues that there are systemic and structural inhibitors to innovation diffusion in Australia's (primarily regional) tourism systems. While Decipher can clearly be shown to represent improvement on current methods for research distribution, technical and functional soundness are not sufficient attributes to ensure widespread uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is a case study on cybergeography of Chinese Tourism Web sites (CTW). With investigation and statistics in 1999 and 2002, the spatial distribution of CTW in mainland of China and the influence factors were analyzed. It is proposed that the distribution of CTW in China is spatially differentiated, and the total number of regional CTW is related to the levels of regional social economic background, Internet techniques and the status of regional tourism development. Provinces and regions were classified into 4 groups based on the regional tourism and CTW. With regression analysis, the total number of CTW is correlated to the total number of regional domains, regional hotels, regional travel services and regional creativeness index with testified efficient linear regression model. Finally, based on these analyses, some regional strategies for the development of CTW were proposed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper outlines a theoretical framework for the discussion and identification of indicators measuring the properties of web sites. In this framework we distinguish between the web site as a medium for describing an object, the web site as an object of description and the normative judgement of a web site. The framework is the basis for a project currently carried out. It aims to establish indicators for tourism web sites and use them in an open benchmarking process to enforce the improvement of the set of independent web sites marketing a given tourist destination both individually and as a resource in the collective presentation of the destination. The case studied is the Sognefjord region in Western Norway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research examines the factors that influence adoption of destination marketing systems (DMSs) by tourism operators. Destination marketing systems are used by destination marketing organisations (DMOs) in distributing tourism products, functioning as marketing intermediaries. In consideration of this, this research aims to examine the influence of marketing channel relationships on the adoption of destination marketing systems. Results of seven expert interviews confirmed the existence of technology barriers to adoption, while also highlighting a number of factors concerned with marketing channel relationships. As well as technology barrier, three themes relating to marketing channel relationships emerged: the relationship of the tourism operator with the DMO, the relationship of the tourism operator with the DMS, and the particular characteristics of tourism operators. Implications of these findings are that DMOs need to contemplate the value that they are presenting to operators, and consider the trust, communication and social networks in their relationships with operators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

EnglandNet Ltd, owned by England's 10 Regional Tourist Boards (RTBs) and VisitBritain, is developing a national distribution system for England's tourism product. The concept is to utilise the ability existing at the local level, to market and sell tourism product using subregional Destination Management Systems (DMSs). Integrating information collected locally through interoperability of local, regional and national DMSs, will enable England's tourism product to be channelled to resellers and distributors, providing information and bookabilty to holidaymakers worldwide. This paper aims to document the Destination Management Organisation (DM0), Marketing Manchester's transition from one business model to another, by examining differences between local and national systems, identifying competitive advantages and evaluating critical success factors, problems and issues arising from interoperability and data harmonization. From the study it will be possible to outline the initial and potential outcome of this field experiment and analyse how these findings/experiences can be extended to other projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper outlines the experimental evaluation of travel recommendation systems. First, theoretical concepts concentrating on the influencing factors for human-computer interaction, system usage and satisfaction are reviewed. An introduction of various methods dealing with usability evaluation is given and an overview of different "standard" survey instruments is provided. Second, a case study, the assessment of a travel recommender system currently under development, is presented. The evaluation considers aspects such as design and layout, functionality or ease of use. These measures obtained by a user questionnaire arc combined with user interaction logging data. Different variants of the travel recommendation system and a baseline system were used for the assessment. This promising approach complements subjective ratings by objective tracking data to obtain a more thorough picture of the system's weaknesses. Finally, findings are presented and an explanatory model for user/system satisfaction is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we present a natural language interface that allows for easy and intuitive access to tourism information. In particular, we describe the knowledge representation model underlying the information retrieval system based on associative networks and that allows the definition of semantic relationships between domain-intrinsic information items. The network structure is used to define weighted associations between information items and we show how the system is enriched by a fuzzy search strategy. A constrained spreading activation algorithm implements information retrieval on the associative network. Strictly speaking, we take the relatedness of information items into account and show how this search strategy yields results highly associated to users' queries. Furthermore, determining appropriate associations between information items is crucial. Thus, we propose an approach based on past user interactions for identifying semantic relations between information items. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Travelers who access the Internet through currently available web information systems often experience difficulty in selecting interesting products. This is especially true for on-the-move travelers who browse information repositories using mobile devices with poor user interfaces. Travelers suffer from an overload of information and options to consider, and they lack system support in filtering information and comparing products. In this paper, we propose an innovative approach to the problem of mapping travelers' needs to a convenient set of travel products or services. In particular, we present an on-the-move restaurant recommender system (mITR) integrated with a pre-travel planning aid system (NutKing). In this approach, firstly, the knowledge contained in a repository of past user choices is exploited to initialize the recommendation process with a set of implicit preferences. Secondly, to minimize user efforts in building a precise search query, we do not require the user to formulate a query at the beginning of the interaction, rather we involve her in a dialogue where the traveler is encouraged to provide critiques and feedback to the system recommendations. These critiques are then incorporated by the system into a new query that tries to better model the user preferences. The approach has been validated empirically by a set of users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developments in search engine technology increasingly focus on helping users define/refine their queries. However, such search support approaches typically employ either content-based or user-driven algorithms. It is argued that a mixed approach that derives word associations from pages contained within the search domain but also takes user behavior into account can potentially provide a more suitable solution. This paper presents a mixed approach developed within the context of a tourism domain-specific search engine. It further outlines a research program that seeks to evaluate the quality of the query refinement solutions the system provides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computer science technology allows us to create fabulous special effects in films and television advertisements. Computer games are becoming more and more detailed and realistic, and the graphics hardware is improving faster than PC chips. This, added to the presence of internet connections almost everywhere has allowed for the incredible explosion in the number of things that can be done remotely from home. Today it is possible to do the shopping, book the tickets for a flight or a theater performance, and to get the weather forecast thousands of miles away. In this paper we present a set of techniques that can be used to improve tourist information that can be delivered through the Internet. We concentrate on museum's web sites. We propose some tools that can help to improve the information quality the users receive through virtual navigation inside the actual museum or through the repository of non exhibited art works. We also propose a method for gallery design through the construction of a virtual model of the architecture of the museum and the pictures or sculptures that can be exhibited, this may allow the designers to see in advance the visual effects of possible changes in museum distribution or decoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interface metaphors are credited with the capability to facilitate interface usability and Iearnability from the human-computer interaction perspective. In tourism, they can help travelers' carry out online information tasks, and also make the information search process more entertaining and engaging. This paper discusses interface metaphors and their roles in traveler's online information experience. A conceptual model is proposed in order to evaluate interface metaphors. Finally, implications for travel website design are explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the case of the consumer adoption of an air travel service innovation, namely delivering electronic tickets (Etix) for air travel, which may be viewed as an innovation in service delivery. The qualitative study reported here adopted Rogers' model of perceived innovation attributes and was augmented by Bauer's framework of perceived risk. Participants in focus groups were categorised according to their attitudes towards buying electronic tickets for air travel through the Internet. The perceived innovation attributes were identified to be significant determinants of consumers' adoption decisions and practices. In addition, two more dimensions were found to influence consumers' adoption decisions, stressing the high complexity of the adoption decisions for Internet-based air travel ticketing innovations. The findings have practical value for organisations in the air travel sector as well as for traditional travel agents and Global Distribution Systems (GDSs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Users of European inland waterways require diverse information about the waterways: information on navigation, tourism, leisure activities and more; before, during and after their trip. Today, information and communication technology is used in this sector only to a limited extent, but there is tremendous potential for using IT products to enhance the waterways experience for all types of users. This paper presents an architecture for a European Waterways Networked Information System, which realizes an open scalable platform for providing up-to-date, location-based information and services for waterway users on mobile devices. In particular, the proposed architecture addresses issues of location awareness in information provisioning, service discovery, and integration of content and service providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we introduce the idea of enhancing the audio presentation of a multimedia museum guide by using the PDA screen to travel throughout a fresco and identify the various details in it. During the presentation, a sequence of pictures is synchronized with the audio commentary and the transitions among the pictures are planned according to cinematic techniques. The theoretical background is presented, discussing the language of cinematography and the Rhetorical Structure Theory to analyze dependency relationships inside a text. In building the video clips, a set of strategies similar to those used in documentaries were employed. Two broad classes of strategies have been identified. The first class encompasses constraints, imposed by the grammar of cinematography, while the second deals with conventions normally used in guiding camera movements in the production of documentaries. The results of a preliminary evaluation are also presented and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wireless technologies are being rapidly diffused in the market worldwide. The gradual implementation of 3G networks and the expansion of wireless LANs transform the way people communicate and provide new opportunities for companies and organisations. As tourism and travel imply mobility by definition, these developments will have great effects and arc expected to revolutionise all aspects of the tourism products, processes and industry structures. These developments bring a new set of opportunities and challenges for tourism destinations and the way they are being managed. This paper is a first attempt to define all the stakeholders, whose participation is required for wireless services to become available on destinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Travel and tourism has for many years been on the forefront of communications technology. Entering the next technological era, this paper looks at what interactive television may hold for long-haul travellers as an information source. The tourism possibilities for interactive television are considered in the light of the traveller's experiences with travel, planning, and interactive media such as teletext, the Internet and current interactive television in the United Kingdom (UK). From this discussion, hypotheses are presented that form the focus of a current major study by the authors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information Systems (IS) have evolved and adapted to the advances of hardware and software. However, rather than in technology itself, the innovations have taken place in two fundamental areas; IS analysis, design and development techniques; and changes in the philosophy of IS. Workflow management is a new IS vision than can be classified into the systems that coordinate and control the work of a real time system. Nowadays the information systems are fully implemented in several degrees in the hotel management. In this paper we develope a new workflow modelling technique that can be applied to hotel information systems for process improvement. Hotel information system complexity is related to multiple agents that are involved in its functionality and can develop a great number of coordinated processes. Thus, the applications in this area are fundamental for information system improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As buyers become more sophisticated in the use of the Internet when purchasing travel and tourism product, the wealth, breadth and depth of information collected as a result of site visits becomes massive. Therefore, the careful mining of this data becomes crucial to match customers and product offerings. Destination tourism planners must consider how many tourists are desired and which segments to attract and tourism marketers must know actual and potential customers and their needs and wants; determine which target markets to serve and decide on appropriate product offerings, services and marketing strategies. This new media offers the chance to improve the richness and reach of marketing communications with their target segments, particularly through e-mail marketing. The purpose of this paper is to examine how UK destinations collect, analyse and utilise their marketing data from their websites and transform them into meaningful marketing information that can be used in well-targeted direct marketing campaigns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents Dietorecs, a novel case-based travel planning recommender system. Dietorecs has been designed by incorporating a human decision model that stresses individual differences in decision styles. Dietorecs supports decision styles by means of an adaptive behavior that is learned exploiting a case base of recommendation sessions that are stored by the systems. Users can enter the system through three main functional doors that fit groups of decision styles, but they can eventually switch the type of support required. The dialogue (questions) is personalized using both the user model (cases) and statistics over the data available in the virtual catalogues provided by two DMOs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Survey results show that travelers with e-commerce experience are among the early users of mobile Internet services. The members of this segment seem to be relatively willing to share personal information on the Internet. It can be hypothesized that in most case the individual does not experience misuse of this information. In the mobile environment, location based service are now starting to appear. The user of the mobile phone will then be aware of the fact that others will know his/her location. Hence, the question of how users can make privacy decisions in this new mobile environment is important.- In the paper, a prototype of a new service is described. This service or application gives the user the control over to whom information about his or her location is revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virtual Communities are considered an effective mean to achieve good and stable relationships with customers, thus attaining higher levels of economic returns from a website. Italian tourism websites suffer from a general poor capacity in terms of offering good quality contents and services to their visitors. As a consequence, online Italian tourism market is one of the smallest in the world of Internet. This paper analyses the usage of community features by Italian online tourism operators and derives a viable model for a successful implementation of such features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of tourism electronic data interchange is of vital interest to almost every tourism enterprise. Small- and medium-sized tourism enterprises are virtually forced to interchange data with other competitors. The approach presented in this paper enables electronic data interchange based on the technologies XML and XSLT. These technologies are recommended by W3C, well supported and free of charge. The presented architecture enable easy configurable, flexible and cost-efficient EDI by transforming data stored within XML documents into a requested data format corresponding to a destination TIS. The transformation specification is defined within XSL style sheets; thus, necessary changes and adaptations do not affect the applications of participating TIS providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]