Intangibles as feedstocks to capability differentials: a DMO perspective

From the perspective of destination management policy and strategy, the present research aims to: 1) identify the role of intangibles – in the perception of destination management – in supporting the achievement of a DMO’s institutional goals; 2) verify the adoption of programs that effectively recognize intangibles as a source of equitable development; 3) identify the main elements that may positively affect network development in terms of collaborative project management, strategic planning, organizational focus and fostering cooperation among destination actors. After identifying and categorizing the intangibles that differentiate a tourism destination and make it more competitive, the paper presents a quali-quantitive analysis based on in-depth interviews with DMO managers and stakeholders, and an examination of projects that DMOs have developed, financed or participated in over the past five years.