Methodology influences on destination image: The case of Michigan

Abstract

In the last 30 years, destination image has emerged as a dominant theme in tourism research studies for both tourism industry practitioners and academic researchers. The results of these studies are intended for destination management purposes and thus are of utmost importance for destination success. Various factors are postulated and demonstrated to influence destination image; however, there is a lack of focus on the methodologies employed when evaluating the image of a destination. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential impact of some methodological tools used when measuring destination image. A large scale and longitudinal market survey dataset of the Michigan Regional Travel Market Survey was analysed for the purpose of this study. A wide range of methodological factors from data gathering modes to analytical techniques utilised were found to influence the revealed image of the study destination, Michigan. Detailed discussion of potential bias factors and potential research directions are provided. © 2007 A.D.A. Tasci.