Institutional innovation in tourism: a systematic review approach

Abstract

Purpose The objective of this research is to analyze the existing academic literature on institutional innovation in tourism to identify advances and knowledge gaps. Design/methodology/approach Through a systematic review methodology, 273 academic articles were identified in online databases such as Google Scholar, Taylor and Francis, Scopus and Web of Science; 31 articles met the inclusion criteria by presenting theoretical or empirical contributions in the field of institutional innovation in tourism. Subsequently, a qualitative content analysis was carried out based on its main contributions. Findings The results indicate that only few studies address this issue even though institutional innovation is the most complex of the tourism innovation typologies and necessary for improving adequate tourism development. The main contributions are synthesized into two central topics: territorial management and innovative behavior. The first includes studies with a broader perspective at the destination or region level, focusing on public policy, competitiveness and sustainability issues. The second focuses on innovation systems, innovation strategies and results such as social and environmental benefits. Future lines of research are identified to advance knowledge on this topic. Originality/value Institutional innovation is essential for destination and organizational management. However, this type of innovation remains the least explored in the tourism innovation literature. This paper aims to review the current knowledge on institutional innovation from both macro and micro perspectives. To achieve this, the discussion focuses on territorial management and innovative behavior, aligning with the principles of sociological institutionalism to understand how institutional innovation processes and outcomes emerge.