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Investigation of West Lake Ecotourism Capabilities Using SWOT and TOPSIS Decision-Making Methods

Author

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  • Yihao Zhu

    (School of Economics and Management, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, China)

  • Chou Chen

    (Department of Public Education, Wenzhou University of Technology, Wenzhou 325000, China)

  • Guodao Zhang

    (Department of Digital Media Technology, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China)

  • Zimin Lin

    (Department of Planning and Finance, Zhejiang College of Security Technology, Wenzhou 325000, China)

  • Sarita Gajbhiye Meshram

    (WRAM Research Lab Pvt. Ltd., Nagpur 440027, Maharashtra, India)

  • Ehsan Alvandi

    (Department of Watershed Management, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan 49189-43464, Iran)

Abstract

Using SWOT and TOPSIS models, this study aimed to determine West Lake’s potential as a tourist destination. In terms of study methodology, the current research is a descriptive survey. The TOPSIS method was used to rank strengths, weaknesses, threats, opportunities, and preferred strategies after the SWOT analysis was completed. Using a questionnaire and the Delphi method, 30 regional specialists provided research data which was collected and analyzed. Thirteen internal elements and twelve external factors affecting the West Lake tourism were identified and evaluated. Additionally, fifteen strategies were presented to improve the lake’s tourism. On the basis of the matrix of internal–external components in the SWOT model, an aggressive approach was determined to be the optimal strategic stance for West Lake. The results of the TOPSIS technique also revealed that internal strengths have a bigger impact than other elements; hence, aggressive strategies are emphasized for the growth of ecotourism in this region. Based on the results of the TOPSIS technique, the “optimal utilization of the lake’s natural, cultural, and historical potential and attractions in order to develop and attract tourists and generate jobs and revenues“ and “formulation of strategic plans to maximize potential and opportunities in order to attract tourists in all seasons of the year“ strategies were identified as the most important strategies for enhancing the West Lake tourism scenario. Therefore, it is hoped that the relevant authorities would contribute to the expansion and enhancement of the region’s economy through a focus on the vision and goals of the tourist sector and careful foresight in the implementation of these projects.

Suggested Citation

  • Yihao Zhu & Chou Chen & Guodao Zhang & Zimin Lin & Sarita Gajbhiye Meshram & Ehsan Alvandi, 2023. "Investigation of West Lake Ecotourism Capabilities Using SWOT and TOPSIS Decision-Making Methods," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(3), pages 1-21, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:3:p:2464-:d:1051562
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Ping Fan & Yihao Zhu & Zi Ye & Guodao Zhang & Shanchuan Gu & Qi Shen & Sarita Gajbhiye Meshram & Ehsan Alvandi, 2023. "Identification and Prioritization of Tourism Development Strategies Using SWOT, QSPM, and AHP: A Case Study of Changbai Mountain in China," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(6), pages 1-22, March.
    2. Chih-Cheng Huang & Shang-Pin Li & Yung-Kuan Chan & Ming-Yuan Hsieh & Jiin-Chyuan Mark Lai, 2023. "Empirical Research on the Sustainable Development of Ecotourism with Environmental Education Concepts," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(13), pages 1-15, June.
    3. Milena Cvetković & Jovana Brankov & Nevena Ćurčić & Sanja Pavlović & Milica Dobričić & Tatiana N. Tretiakova, 2023. "Protected Natural Areas and Ecotourism—Priority Strategies for Future Development in Selected Serbian Case Studies," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(21), pages 1-31, November.

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