The role of the internet in tourism: An example from Šumadija region

Abstract

The use of the Internet for the purpose of tourist destination development and improvement of tourist companies' business is getting more and more importance every day. Bearing in mind the heterogeneous character of services necessary for tourist needs, the Internet has become an integral part of establishment, delivery, and use of tourist products. From sales, as one of the most important tourist functions, through procurement and contact with clients, to marketing, as an integrative element of all other points in a tourist destination business, the Internet plays a significant role. The use of modern technologies in online business shortens the time for certain operations and lowers the business expenses. The goal of this paper is to compare the Internet use in online business in Šumadija District and its main competitors (local and foreign). For that purpose, the following research has been conducted.