مرکز منطقه ای اطلاع رساني علوم و فناوري - EFFECT OF GLOBAL ECONOMIC CRISIS ON TRAVEL AGENCIES AND CRISIS MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN TURKEY

Abstract :

Crisis management has become a requirement for businesses particularly in tourism industry. In spite of the limited studies carried out in this field in Turkey, the survey of the subject has significance in practices undergone by travel agencies, which are the backbones of the tourism industry. In this context we aim to analyze the measures and practices adopted by travel agencies during periods of crisis; determine the frequency of utilization of these measures and practices during periods of crisis; and, analyze the positive and negative effects of crisis on travel agencies. Quantitative approach has been adopted in the study and 357 valid questionnaires were analyzed through inferential statistics. Findings suggest that developing practices for new marketing policies appear as the first factor and is practiced more frequently than other applications. Cohesiveness to crisis process and organizational preparatory work are seen to stand out. Particularly, adaptation of work processes in harmony with the new circumstances, and the need for adopting new approaches through reviewing the management process, implementation of a flexible management concept that adapts quickly to the new conditions are encountered as the most significant practices. Evidence obtained provides managers of travel agencies with necessary measures related to difficulties faced, as well as suggestions for the preparatory phase of potential crisis. Additionally, this research undergone for travel agencies, will contribute to the crisis planning and management literature in Turkey.