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Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

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Tourism And The Developing World: A Comparative Analysis On Socio-Economic Development Between The Dominican Republic And Haiti, Megan Elise Reissig Mar 2019

Tourism And The Developing World: A Comparative Analysis On Socio-Economic Development Between The Dominican Republic And Haiti, Megan Elise Reissig

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

The tourism industry has been growing exponentially throughout the world, both in developed and underdeveloped countries. The industry is normally considered means of economic growth for a destination, however there is much controversy as to whether the social effects are positive or negative. The purpose of this study was to compare strategies of socio-economic development through tourism in select developing countries. In the cases of the Dominican Republic and Haiti, tourism has contributed greatly to economic development, and both countries should continue focussing efforts on tourism for means of economic development. However, they should focus on educating their citizens so …


Marketing The Arts: A Comparative Analysis Of The Social Media Practices Of Select Performing Arts Centers, Lindsey Morin Mar 2019

Marketing The Arts: A Comparative Analysis Of The Social Media Practices Of Select Performing Arts Centers, Lindsey Morin

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Performing arts centers (PACs) provide a cultural hub that aids in increasing civic engagement and social capital within a community. Attendance in the performing arts has been on the decline, which threatens the cultural richness of communities across the country. The purpose of this study was to examine the social media marketing practices of select California performing arts centers. The PAC, San Luis Obispo, San Diego Symphony and Segerstrom Center for the Arts were selected to be examined in this study. This was done by strategically analyzing the Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts for each of the three PACs utilizing …


Fresh Squeezed Fitness: A Case Study On The Marketing Of Orangetheory Fitness, Emma Schmidt Dec 2018

Fresh Squeezed Fitness: A Case Study On The Marketing Of Orangetheory Fitness, Emma Schmidt

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

The fitness industry has grown immensely in the past decade as a form of health management. The industry has expanded to offer niche fitness facilities that cater to individuals’ specific needs and motivations. The purpose of this study was to examine the best marketing and branding practices utilized by Orangetheory Fitness. The research for this study was collected using a case study matrix, developed by the researcher, to evaluate Orangetheory Fitness’ marketing strategies. The study resulted in findings indicating the importance of technology advancement and brand differentiation pertaining to the success of Orangetheory Fitness. It is crucial for Orangetheory Fitness …


Going Off Course: A Case Study On The Marketing Strategy Of Patagonia, Jamie Elizabeth Drawbridge Mar 2018

Going Off Course: A Case Study On The Marketing Strategy Of Patagonia, Jamie Elizabeth Drawbridge

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

In recent years, society has seen a shift in marketing practices from traditional to non-traditional strategies in order to stand out amongst competitors and connect with customers. This is especially true of the outdoor gear industry. With participation in outdoor recreation on the rise, companies in the outdoor gear industry must come up with marketing strategies as active as its consumers. The purpose of this study was to examine the marketing strategy of Patagonia. The research for this study was conducted using a case study matrix, created by the researcher, in order to evaluate Patagonia’s marketing strategy. This study found …


More Than Music: A Case Study On The Marketing Of Outside Lands Music Festival, Emily Haworth Mar 2018

More Than Music: A Case Study On The Marketing Of Outside Lands Music Festival, Emily Haworth

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

The evolution of marketing has shown a general progression towards experiential and digital marketing, and away from traditional marketing. Digital and experiential marketing are at the forefront of many company’s marketing strategies due to their ability to form lasting brand relationships with consumers. The purpose of this study was to examine the marketing techniques of the Outside Lands Music Festival and their draw on millennials. Research for this study was gathered using a case study guide established by the researcher, which highlighted the past experiential and digital marketing efforts of Outside Lands and their sponsors. The results of this study …


Colorado’S Budding Economy: A Comparative Analysis Of Selected Marijuana Tourism Businesses In The Centennial State, Connor D. King Jun 2017

Colorado’S Budding Economy: A Comparative Analysis Of Selected Marijuana Tourism Businesses In The Centennial State, Connor D. King

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Since the 2014 legalization of recreational marijuana in the state of Colorado, pioneering entrepreneurs have been getting in on the ground level of a fledgling industry—marijuana tourism. Through interviews with six Colorado-based marijuana tourism business owners, this qualitative study identified current challenges and opportunities faced by those who are blazing the trail into this new form of alternative tourism. The results indicate that continued stigmatization of marijuana in society, along with restrictive and changing regulations, pose significant legal and financial challenges. The results also include a summary of opportunities and recommendations which include educating the public about the benefits of …


More Than A Tent: A Case Study On Live Brand Experiences At Coachella Music Festival, Tori Perrella Mar 2017

More Than A Tent: A Case Study On Live Brand Experiences At Coachella Music Festival, Tori Perrella

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

In recent years, society has seen a shift of marketing practices from traditional strategies to experiential marketing in order for brands to connect with individuals on an emotional level. Live brand experiences contribute to companies building relationships with consumers to create unique, memorable experiences that will be associated with the brand after the event. The purpose of this study was to examine the best practices of live brand experiences at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. The research for this study was conducted using a case study guide created by the researcher, which examined brands’ past brand activations at Coachella. …


Getting To The Core: A Case Study On The Company Culture Of Apple Inc., Jenna B. Arocha Mar 2017

Getting To The Core: A Case Study On The Company Culture Of Apple Inc., Jenna B. Arocha

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Company culture exists within every organization and makes up the company’s DNA. Apple Inc. (Apple) is a worldwide technology company that innovates new products and services while having environmental practices in mind. The purpose of this study was to examine the company culture of Apple. The researcher used a best practices guide to evaluate Apple’s company culture. This study found that Apple is effective in their company culture practices, however, could focus their efforts more on employees. In order to continue to have a positive company culture, Apple should focus more efforts on employees and utilize a more adhocracy style …


Marketing The Magic In A Nature-Based Experience: A Case Study On The Walt Disney Company, Kristen L. Byron Dec 2016

Marketing The Magic In A Nature-Based Experience: A Case Study On The Walt Disney Company, Kristen L. Byron

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Customers focus on different values when looking for a travel experience. Experiential marketing is able to connect customers with companies and experiences that match their values, including ecotourism and nature-based experiences. The Walt Disney Company is an international brand of entertainment features and is able to provide guests with customized experiences. The purpose of this study was to examine experiential marketing techniques in relation to the Walt Disney Company’s ecotourism and nature focused experiences. The researcher used a best practices matrix on the Walt Disney Company, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Aulani Resort and Spa. This study found that the …


Spectator Attendance Strategies: A Best Practices Examination Of Mls Expansion Franchises, Bryce Schomburg Dec 2015

Spectator Attendance Strategies: A Best Practices Examination Of Mls Expansion Franchises, Bryce Schomburg

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

The expansion of Major League Soccer (MLS) has dramatically raised league awareness throughout the nation. This impact was influenced by the additional consideration organizations have paid to the role of spectator attendance within professional sports. The purpose of this study was to examine the best practices for spectator attendance strategies employed by recent MLS expansion franchises. The following organizations were evaluated for the comparative analysis: Seattle Sounders, Portland Timbers, and New York City FC. These organizations were analyzed through a best practices comparison guide developed by the researcher. Data were collected from the selected teams’ websites, third party organization analysis, …


Setting The Standard: A Study Of The Walt Disney Resort Service Model, Kelsey Freeman Mar 2015

Setting The Standard: A Study Of The Walt Disney Resort Service Model, Kelsey Freeman

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Companies are constantly seeking new ways to keep up with the changing expectations of customers. In the hospitality industry customizing guest service to each individual guest is a step that can be taken to create lasting relationships. The Walt Disney Resorts are worth examining for their high rate of return. The purpose of this study was to analyze the best practices and success of personalizing guest experience at the Walt Disney Resorts. The researcher used a case study checklist to gather information about the efforts Disney makes to customize guest experiences.The study found that allowing guests to customize their vacation, …


Web Based Marketing: A Best Practices Examination Of Rural Destinations In The American West, Elsie Cline Mar 2015

Web Based Marketing: A Best Practices Examination Of Rural Destinations In The American West, Elsie Cline

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

In recent years the United States has seen a growing trend in rural travel, which has increased the awareness of rural destinations. However, in order to compete with larger destinations, rural destinations must market themselves through various online outlets. The purpose of this study was to examine the web based marketing practices of five selected rural tourism destinations in the Western United States. The destinations studied were: Tonopah, Nevada; Ajo, Arizona; Creede, Colorado; Taos, New Mexico; and Marfa, Texas. These destinations were analyzed through an examination of destination websites and social media accounts. The results showed that in order to …


Heads In Beds: A Best Practices Examination Of Advertising Platforms For Multi-National Hotel Chains, Erika Segal Mar 2015

Heads In Beds: A Best Practices Examination Of Advertising Platforms For Multi-National Hotel Chains, Erika Segal

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Multi-national hotel chains have thousands of hotels and resorts all over the world. Despite their many differences, one thing they all have in common is the need to advertise. The purpose of this study was to research the advertising techniques of each chain in order to determine the best practices for this business sector. The researcher found that many of the chains were inconsistent with their advertising platforms, rendering their efforts ineffective for acquiring and maintaining customers. Key recommendations were that a company only keeps advertising platforms if they are able to maintain and manage them well, to ensure that …


Corporate Event Planner’S Marketing Strategy: An Assessment Of Effective Website Design, Hayley V. Bauarschi Dec 2014

Corporate Event Planner’S Marketing Strategy: An Assessment Of Effective Website Design, Hayley V. Bauarschi

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Marketing is a key element in a company’s development. Remaining in the public eye helps ensure business as well as generate new clients. A continuous marketing tool companies use to remain visible is a website. In order to be effective, a website needs to engage and encourage users to connect with a company. The purpose of this study was to analyze the visual appeal and aesthetic design of websites for selected corporate event planning companies. The researcher studied certain components that reflect a successful website and then created a matrix based off research to collect data. The data helped to …


Searching For Lodging: An Analysis Of Selected Pismo Beach Hotels' Search Engine Marketing Practices, Christopher J. Kumata Dec 2014

Searching For Lodging: An Analysis Of Selected Pismo Beach Hotels' Search Engine Marketing Practices, Christopher J. Kumata

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Search engines connect users to websites and became a distribution channel for many products. In the case of hotels, it is essential that the hotel’s website appears among the top results when potential customers search for lodging in a certain area. The purpose of this study was to examine search engine marketing best practices and performance among non-national hotels in Pismo Beach, California. The researcher performed popular keyword searches to evaluate performance and examine strategies of the top performing hotels. The analysis discovered that the top hotels shared website design characteristics, the majority of search engine optimization is performed by …


Sustainability: An Examination Of Trends In The Floral Industry, Emily Gaul Jun 2014

Sustainability: An Examination Of Trends In The Floral Industry, Emily Gaul

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Sustainability in the floral industry is a constantly changing subject. As more products are created for florists to use in their designs, sustainability will evolve and be redefined. The purpose of this study was to examine the sustainable trends in growing, designing, and marketing within the floral industry. As seen in the companies analyzed, each business plan constitutes a different set of practices that are utilized for the benefit of that company. An applied best practices analysis was conducted on the floral industry’s trends in sustainability. In the floral industry, businesses are shifting away from importing and focusing on local …


Competitive Marketing Strategy: A Best Practices Examination Of Convention Hotels In San Francisco, Jennifer Hardy Mar 2014

Competitive Marketing Strategy: A Best Practices Examination Of Convention Hotels In San Francisco, Jennifer Hardy

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

The expansion of convention hotels in metropolitan areas has been steadily increasing in recent years. This expansion causes competition between hotels in the same market. The purpose of this study was to examine the best practices for competitive marketing strategies used by convention hotels in San Francisco. The hotels studied were: Westin St. Francis, Fairmont Hotel, Ritz-Carlton, and Four Seasons. These organizations were analyzed based on several questions developed by the researcher. Data were collected from organizational websites and social media pages. The results demonstrate that the companies use many similar marketing practices. In order to market themselves more competitively, …


Loyalty Programs: An Examination Of The Best Practices In Selected Luxury Chain Hotels, Julie Poincenot Mar 2014

Loyalty Programs: An Examination Of The Best Practices In Selected Luxury Chain Hotels, Julie Poincenot

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Loyalty programs enable companies to reward their return customers. In the hotel industry, a loyalty program is a useful and beneficial tool to improve their customer service and entice their guests to stay with them on return visits. The purpose of this study was to conduct a best practices study on loyalty programs in luxury hotel chains. The researcher used a best practices matrix to examine the loyalty programs of Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, Omni Hotels and Resorts, and Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants. The study found that companies should benchmark their programs by aligning their benefits with companies similar to …


Financial Risk Management: A Case Study Of The 2010 Winter Olympic Games In Vancouver, Canada, Jillian R. Shoop Mar 2014

Financial Risk Management: A Case Study Of The 2010 Winter Olympic Games In Vancouver, Canada, Jillian R. Shoop

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Businesses take risks to progress a company forward, but management of that risk is essential for success. Companies can quickly identify early warning signs by creating an ever-evolving financial plan, which also strengthens the company’s vision, mission, goals, and objectives. The purpose of this study was to conduct a case study in financial risk management of the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic Games. The organization was evaluated based on an instrument created by the researcher to examine the Vancouver Organizing Committee’s financial risk management plan. The study showed that the Vancouver Organizing Committee created efficient management plans for potential risks and …


An Examination Of Branding Strategies For Selected Major League Baseball Organizations, Kaitlyn Defanti Dec 2013

An Examination Of Branding Strategies For Selected Major League Baseball Organizations, Kaitlyn Defanti

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

The implementation of successful branding strategies is crucial for all sport organizations to enhance revenue, sponsorships, and brand loyalty. To facilitate successful practices, it is important that organizations are aware of the most common branding strategies as well as the strategies of their competitors. The purpose of this study was to examine the best practices of branding strategies for the five Major League Baseball franchises in the state of California. Data were collected from five selected Major League Baseball teams. The instrument utilized in this study was a checklist covering branding strategies with an additional section for notes. The results …


An Examination Of The Best Practices Of Experiential Marketing In Selected Popular Beverage Companies, Taylor Matthews Dec 2013

An Examination Of The Best Practices Of Experiential Marketing In Selected Popular Beverage Companies, Taylor Matthews

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

In recent years, marketing efforts have shifted from traditional marketing strategies toward experiential marketing in order to ensure that consumers become emotionally attached to a brand. Experiential marketing strategies help companies create relationships with consumers and engage them through unique and memorable experiences. The purpose of this study was to examine the use of experiential marketing in three popular beverage companies. The research for this study was conducted using a best practices matrix created by the researcher, which examined experiential marketing strategies for selected popular beverage companies in the soft drink industry. The results of this study indicate that each …


Examining Official Supporter Groups: A Case Study Of The Cal Poly Men's Soccer Program, Kevin Mould Dec 2013

Examining Official Supporter Groups: A Case Study Of The Cal Poly Men's Soccer Program, Kevin Mould

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Official supporter groups are a critical component of any athletic program. One sport in which this concept is particularly apparent is soccer, a large part of the athletic culture at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. In order for these supporter groups to function at their highest level, they must be continually evaluated. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the official supporter groups of the Cal Poly Men’s Soccer program. Data were collected online from websites and social media outlets associated with each of Cal Poly Soccer’s official supporter groups, the Green Army and the Manglers. The instrument used …


Weddings And Sustainability: A Case Study Examining Green Practices At Green With Envy Events, Jessica Roth Dec 2013

Weddings And Sustainability: A Case Study Examining Green Practices At Green With Envy Events, Jessica Roth

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Green with Envy Events is a sustainable event planning company based out of San Diego, California. This company was used when conducting a case study examining sustainable wedding practices. The research was gathered using internet research, academic journals, and information from the Green with Envy Events website. The company demographics were examined and the company’s sustainable practices were analyzed by comparing various aspects to a complete checklist. It was found that there are numerous sustainable materials and services that can be used, that sustainable materials and services are a better option than non-sustainable materials and services, and that the company …


Assessing The Need For Personalized, Jewelry-Based Customer Loyalty Programs Within Top Las Vegas, Nevada Luxury Casino Resorts, Melissa Brick Jun 2013

Assessing The Need For Personalized, Jewelry-Based Customer Loyalty Programs Within Top Las Vegas, Nevada Luxury Casino Resorts, Melissa Brick

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Luxury markets have begun to expand from material items into places, experiences, and lifestyles. As the popularity of the luxury travel increases, resorts may benefit from incorporating some type of luxury aspect into a guest’s stay. The purpose of this study was to assess the current need for personalized, jewelry-based, luxury customer loyalty programs focused on wealthy visitors to resort casinos in Las Vegas, Nevada. The researcher created an over the phone interview script and interviewed representatives from 15 top luxury resort casinos in Las Vegas, NV. Existence of customer loyalty programs and ‘high-roller’ customer loyalty programs were found to …


Recreation Displacement Of Bass Fishermen From Central Coast Lakes, Erin Gray Jun 2013

Recreation Displacement Of Bass Fishermen From Central Coast Lakes, Erin Gray

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

The purpose of this study was to assess the impacts of aquatic invasive species preventative measures on recreation displacement of bass fishermen from Central Coast lakes. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to participants at a local bass fishing tournament. Thirty-six respondents completed the questionnaire. The results indicated that boat inspection procedures do not necessarily cause bass fishermen to displace. This study found that fishermen are likely to avoid recreating at a Central Coast lake in fishing practice conditions rather than in tournament conditions, and are likely to avoid tournaments at their least favorite lake if boat inspection procedures take too …


Environmental Sustainability Practices In The Hospitality Industry Of Orange County, California, Lauren Doherty Jun 2013

Environmental Sustainability Practices In The Hospitality Industry Of Orange County, California, Lauren Doherty

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

The hospitality industry is growing rapidly in its practice and implementation of green initiatives in order to preserve the natural environment and successfully meet the needs and desires of green-minded consumers. The purpose of this study was to assess the environmental sustainability practices in the hotel and special events industries of Orange County. Data was collected from participants representing seven different hotel and event venues in Orange County. The instrument used consisted of semi-structured, with some forced-choice interview questions pertaining to the sustainability practices of each property. The results indicated that the seven properties are actively establishing and practicing environmental …


Sustainability Trends For Museums, Zoos, And Aquariums: A Website Evaluation, Alison Sunahara Jun 2013

Sustainability Trends For Museums, Zoos, And Aquariums: A Website Evaluation, Alison Sunahara

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Sustainability is an emerging trend that is accessible through programs and practices for the public and organizations. Museums, zoos, and aquariums exhibit and maintain collection pieces for observation and study. The purpose of the study was to analyze the top museum, zoo, and aquarium websites to determine their sustainability practices. This study was conducted through a website checklist developed by the researcher. Data were collected using a representative sample of the top museum, zoos, and aquariums within the United States. The sample was based upon the Travel Channel’s “Top 10 Free U.S. Museums”, “America’s Wildest Zoos”, and “Best Aquariums in …


Perceptions And Motivations For Travel To California's Central Coast, Lisa Baird Jun 2013

Perceptions And Motivations For Travel To California's Central Coast, Lisa Baird

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

California and its Central Coast is an extremely popular destination for international and non-Californian U.S. travelers. The purpose of this study was to determine the motivations and perceptions of international and non-Californian residents who may travel to the Central Coast of California. Data were collected through an online questionnaire. One hundred and seventeen subjects participated in this study. Non-Californian and international tourists are motivated to travel to the Central Coast to visit friends and family, and to discover and learn about an unknown destination. Perceived destination is a large reason why people choose to travel to California and the Central …


The Management Of A Home: An Analysis Of Nba Arena Management Trends, Brandon Lewis Jun 2013

The Management Of A Home: An Analysis Of Nba Arena Management Trends, Brandon Lewis

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Each NBA arena holds the key to the ultimate fan experience. In order for facility managers to make sure that the arena upholds that ultimate fan experience, it is critical for NBA teams to evaluate which management trends are being best utilized to create the best fan experience possible. The purpose of this study was to examine the trends in management of NBA arenas. Data were collected from the 30 National Basketball Association franchises and operators of the 29 NBA arenas. The instrument used consisted of a checklist and a section for written notes. Results from the study indicated that …


Trends In Online Sport Marketing, Alexandra (Ali) Bickel Jun 2012

Trends In Online Sport Marketing, Alexandra (Ali) Bickel

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

All professional sports teams are using the Internet as a part of their marketing strategy. In order for this to be successful, it is critical for sport marketers to evaluate which Internet marketing trends are being best utilized to connect with fans and website users. The purpose of this study was to determine the best practices in sport marketing in the five major professional sport leagues. Data were collected from five professional sports team’s websites from the NBA, MLB, NHL, NFL and MLS. The instrument used consisted of a checklist with a section for written notes. The results indicated that …