Page 42 - Sustaining Accommodation SMES

5 Research Framework and Objectives

provement. A fundamental contribution of the resulting report is thus to
offer comprehensive insights into the primary issues impacting the im-
plementation of sustainable practices within the accommodation sector
smes, thereby guiding strategic recommendations for crucial improve-
ments.
To achieve these aims, the research was structured through distinct in-
quiries for both the quantitative and qualitative components. The quanti-
tative online survey was precisely calibrated to generate measurable data
focusing on three specific, high-priority areas related to the potential
adoption of formal standards:
1. Determining the level of readiness among accommodation busi-
nesses for the eventual adoption of the comprehensive iso 21401
sustainability standard.
2. Identifying the perceived barriers that hinder the adoption of any
standardized sustainable approach.
3. Mapping the organisational needs and support mechanisms iden-
tified by the smes as essential prerequisites for successfully imple-
menting the iso 21401 standard within their organisations.
In parallel, the qualitative study aimed for depth and nuance, seeking
to provide rich qualitative insights into the lived experience of sustain-
ability within the sector. The investigation examined the specific sustain-
able practices in which businesses were engaged, analysed their perceived
impacts, and documented the barriers preventing a smooth sustainable
transition. It also captured management’s beliefs regarding the value and
feasibility of structured sustainability standards, and identified specific
obstacles impeding formal standards implementation. In order to achieve
the ambitious objectives of this research, a rigorous mixed methodolog-
ical approach was intentionally implemented, combining both qualita-
tive and quantitative research methods. This multi-faceted design was
deemed essential, as it allowed for the collection of comprehensive and
complementary data covering the environmental, socio-cultural, and
economic dimensions of sustainability. This enabled the identification
of both generalized trends and specific contextual issues and opportu-
nities. The overarching objective of this mixed approach was to furnish
substantial evidence for the subsequent development of the Sustainability
Protocol and the Self-Assessment Tool.
The methodology was structured sequentially across three distinct yet
interconnected phases:

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