ABSTRACT
Chapter 7 opens in saying that DMOs are becoming more involved in destination product development as the competition for visitors intensifies. The components of the destination product are defined as is the TALC concept. It is explained that DMOs have different levels of involvement ranging from being a bystander to becoming a partner in development. As there are many destinations at different stages of tourism, tourism product development (TPD) varies by country. Destination quality is reviewed in detail and then several product development strategy models are described. Hard and soft products are explained. The steps in effective destination product development are identified.
