Public Sector Services
OHC provides innovative consulting services to governments and the tourism industry to maximize the near-term economics of their businesses and destinations without jeopardizing their long-term environmental, cultural and social integrity.
Public sector organizations play a key role in the development of the tourism sector. Regulation of natural and cultural resource use, incentives to improve the global competitiveness of tourism business, developing basic tourism infrastructure and marketing destinations internationally are all the domain of the public sector.
To assist the tourism industry we view tourism destinations as products that need to be planned, developed, packaged and delivered to the right market. Successful tourism products are the consequence of comprehensive and cross-sectored strategies that take into consideration the adequate management of natural and cultural resources, the promotion of sustainable economic growth and improving the quality of tourists' experience. Our public sector clients can benefit from this unique approach:
Market assessment
Assessing who your potential visitors are, where they are and how to attract them
The success of a tourism destination depends on the regular arrival of visitors and the effects of their activities while they stay there. Identifying the right market is critical for destinations, particularly when promoting sustainable nature and culture-based tourism products. OHC assists public sector organizations to formulate marketing strategies that allow destinations to gain a competitive edge while attracting wealthier, more responsible segments of the international tourism market.
Tourism assessment and planning
Understanding the tourism potential of your destination and how to develop it
One of the main challenges faced by tourism decision-makers is defining the comparative advantages of their destinations and preparing market-driven plans that will result in a successful tourism industry.
Strategic planning and master planning for destinations
Tourism policies and incentives
Maximizing the positive impacts of tourism while reducing its negative impacts
The tourism sector is considered the engine of economic growth for many developed and developing countries. It is a major generator of foreign and domestic investment, foreign exchange earnings, and employment. Pressures on the natural and cultural resource base upon which the industry depends threaten the longevity and sustainability of tourism assets. OHC assists local and provincial governments and regional organizations to evaluate current programs and identify opportunities to introduce sustainable tourism policies and incentives.
Tourism product development
Developing the infrastructure to provide visitors with a unique and memorable experience
No matter how attractive the destination, visitors will not arrive and stay there unless the necessary infrastructure and activities are in place. The public sector typically develops the basic infrastructure that allows the private sector to run tourism activities and businesses. However, governments and development organizations can also play an important role in promoting sustainable tourism products that tap into growing niche markets and create benefits for host communities.