Assessment of technology strategies for sustainable tourism planning Surabhi Gore, Nilesh Borde and Purva Hegde Desai Abstract Purpose – An essential requirement for tourism planning and policymaking is to review past strategies. The development of future roadmaps depends on a robust strategy validation process. The research analyses the technology strategies in Goa from 1962–2017 and highlights the impact of technology on tourism in Goa. Design/methodology/approach – The paper presents a unique methodology that integrates tourism area life cycle (TALC) and Mintzberg’s strategy analysis framework to evaluate strategies at a tourism destination. Findings – The findings show that most technological advancements have taken place during the period 1989–2008. Both deliberate and emergent strategies were identified. Development of technology altered the type of tourism practiced in Goa. The use of internet facilitated the growth of tourism. Research limitations/implications – This study clarifies the styles of public planning for tourism. It provides the foundation for strategic planning process. Practical implications – Effective and efficient use of policy through technology road mapping can aid in co-creating a sustainable tourism destination for the future. Social implications – The strategic evaluation framework can be used in any tourism destinations to identify past strategies and assess its impact on the future. Originality/value – The paper presents a unique methodology that integrates TALC and Mintzberg’s strategy analysis framework to evaluate strategies at a tourism destination. The research proposes a strategic evaluation process that recognizes past strategies to validate the strategic analysis process. Keywords Technology, Tourism, Strategy, Tourism area life cycle, Deliberate and Emergent Strategy, Goa Paper type Research paper Introduction Technology has impacted on the development of all industries, and the tourism industry is no exception. Technology has changed the way people travel, book hotels, taxis or airline tickets. It has decreased costs and boosted the operational efficiency of tourism services. The use of technology has made travelling to a destination more accessible. Specific strategies developed for the growth of technology at a destination can assist in the overall development of the place. Technological developments have helped tourists in booking travel and accommodation services in Goa. Information about tourist places such as beaches, monuments, adventure tourism activities is freely available on the internet. The government, hotels and travel agents market themselves on different media in both domestic and foreign markets. The state of Goa is the smallest in India. It was liberated from the Portuguese in the year 1961 and attained statehood in 1987. The Goan culture is a unique amalgamation of Indian and Portuguese culture. Tourism in Goa started in the 1960s. The first tourists were attracted to Goa for its natural beauty and moderate weather (Brammer and Beech, 2004). The golden sand of beaches offers the tourist a distinct experience. Goa is home to the Assistant Professor Surabhi Gore is based at the department of BBA T & T, Rosary College of Commerce and Arts, Navelim, Goa, India. Professor Nilesh Borde and Professor Purva Hegde Desai are both based at Goa Business School, Goa University, Goa, India. Received 3 February 2020 Revised 28 May 2020 Accepted 25 June 2020 DOI 10.1108/FS-02-2020-0006 © Emerald Publishing Limited, ISSN 1463-6689 j FORESIGHT j