Destination-selection attributes for international association meetings: A mixed-methods study

Abstract

Destination selection by international associations is a dynamic and complex decision-making process in which many stakeholders participate. In this process, key decision makers in associations engage in a series of individual decision-making processes based upon their own perceptions and decision criteria. The overall goal of this study is to understand the decision-making process and identify important decision-making criteria in international associations by applying a mixed-methods approach. This study reveals the complex structure and role of international association buying centers in the process of destination selection, and it identifies 24 important but underexplored attributes affecting this process based on a series of qualitative and quantitative research methods. The findings serve as a foundation for better marketing strategies in destination marketing organizations.