Abstract:
In order to show how the satellite data can be used within ski
resort management, we decided to develop a Management Information System (MIS).
A MIS is a computer system that facilitates
decision-making processes by making the problem of a ski
manager more transparent. The system needs spatial data to (1) present the
problem. (2) To show alternative solutions and (3) Feed models needed to assess
economic and environmental impacts. Furthermore a special
section on 'Eco
Labelling', supplying information on future developments related to
sustainable tourism, is implemented.
The ski area MIS integrates all the products created within the
CARTESIAN project and thus provides: automatic access to a spatial CIS database
containing e.g. remote sensing- and topographic information, a Management Evaluation tool based on MCA (Multi
Criteria Analysis) and advanced 3D visualisation tools to provide pre recorded 3D animation's of the ski-resorts.
The MIS can be used in several ways. In tt\e first place,
as an instrument to support communication between stakeholders
involved in a process dealing with {ski resort) management. Typically, the MIS
can be used in a workshop, showing
management options (e.g. 'choose the best Olympic site' or 'stimulate
eco-tourism') and their impacts on several criteria such as environment and
economic benefits. Secondly, the MIS
can be used by an engineer as a stand-alone application for calculating the
effects of constructing a ski lift.
The MIS provides information on costs and environmental effects. Thirdly, the
MIS is a clear marketing tool with 3D
animations showing the resort from different viewpoints. In order to develop
the MIS, we defined three case study areas each representing a particular
management issue of a ski resort are the MIS specialization areas? What emphases exist within the WIIS
program?