What does digital transformation really mean for UNESCO territories? For DACC, the answer starts on the ground: with the people who manage, promote, visit and experience UNESCO sites every day.
All project partners are currently working on a key phase of the project, linked to the Digital Heritage Impact Assessment. This phase includes the analysis of digital threats and challenges of UNESCO sites, the collection of historical digital data and future forecasts, and the identification of digital impact assessment indicators.
Across the project territories, partners have carried out extensive fieldwork to better understand the current use of digital tools, existing gaps and future needs. In each territory, at least 35 questionnaires, 10 interviews and several focus groups have been completed, involving local stakeholders, tourism operators, public authorities, cultural actors and other relevant target groups. The information collected covers several key aspects of digital transformation, including websites, social media, online booking systems, visitor services, data management, cybersecurity, connectivity, digital skills, training needs and funding opportunities. The data gathered is now being analysed by the partnership. This analysis will help identify common challenges and territorial specificities, while supporting the definition of shared priorities for the next project activities.
Most importantly, the results will support the development of a digital impact assessment framework, helping DACC partners understand and monitor the real effects of digital transformation on UNESCO territories. This will provide a clearer picture of how digital tools can improve the way heritage sites are managed, experienced and promoted, while supporting more accessible, sustainable and innovative destinations.
Building on this framework, the partnership will define common indicators, targeted capacity-building actions and practical solutions tailored to the needs of the UNESCO destinations involved.
