Chapter 15: Analysing Smart Tourism Ecosystems for Sustainable Development: A System Dynamics Approach

The tourism industry, as a highly complex system, plays a significant role in economic growth and sustainable development (Baggio & Del Chiappa, 2013; Sinclair-Maragh & Gursoy, 2016). In the Portuguese economy, tourism is a crucial sector, contributing over 6% of the national gross domestic product (GDP) and serving as a strategic activity to alleviate unemployment (Soukiazis & Proença, 2008). The increasing use of smart technologies by tourists has enhanced their experiences, enabled real-time interaction, and promoted co-creation (Buhalis, 2019; Matos et al., 2019; PORDATA, 2018). In response, the Tourism Board of Portugal introduced strategies aimed at promoting growth, sustainability, and stakeholder engagement.