How virtual reality can be used in the tourism industry
Karlsson, Nina (2020)
Karlsson, Nina
2020
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2020121227816
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2020121227816
Tiivistelmä
The thesis is a qualitative study on how virtual reality marketing can be used in the tourism industry. Examples from two companies currently using virtual reality marketing is provided, along with insights from consumers utilizing these services in order to get another perspective on the topic. The aim of this study is to find ways in how virtual reality can be used as part of a company’s marketing strategy, the benefits with it and what differences virtual reality marketing holds when compared with traditional marketing. Limitations regarding this study involve the lack of virtual reality usage by companies as well as consumers. Methods used for the study are two sets of semi-structured in-depth interviews, one from two companies and the other from consumers. The results show virtual reality marketing in the tourism sector in Finland is used for tour operating and 360º videos. Benefits with virtual reality marketing include more realistic marketing, added value and closer experience with a product or service. Virtual reality marketing is more effective but costlier and needs more updating than traditional marketing. Additionally, it gives a dreamier and more thrilling experience than traditional marketing. Other differences between the two marketing concepts are the channel support and the opportunities among the two, with virtual reality having more possibilities.