WHEN DESTINATION PERCEPTION BECOMES THE DECIDING FACTOR
Why working with a DMAP-accredited destination organisation helps event organisers choose with confidence.
In today’ s global event landscape, perception drives attendance. From safety and media narratives to political and social dynamics, reputation plays a pivotal role in destination selection— and event organisers are weighing far more than logistics.
That’ s why working with a DMAP-accredited destination organisation matters. DMAP— the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program from Destinations International— recognises organisations that meet rigorous global standards in marketing, management and community alignment. Backed by Destinations International’ s latest research, Destination Reputation: Responding to Societal Issues, it’ s clear that accredited partners are best positioned to address evolving perception challenges and instil confidence in event organisers and their stakeholders.
Here’ s why it matters:
1
Safety Is a Priority Event organisers rank public safety and crime among their top concerns. DMAP-accredited destination organisations are required to demonstrate proactive crisis planning, community partnerships and public safety collaboration as part of their accreditation process.
2
Perception
Can Be Influenced Media narratives and online content shape reputation fast. DMAP-accredited organisations are held to standards around transparency, reputation strategy and coordinated messaging. They’ re equipped to help event organisers shape stakeholder communications, provide accurate data and support event storytelling that builds trust and drives attendance.
3
Social
Impact Matters Delegates want to feel welcomed. DMAP accreditation standards emphasise social impact, community engagement and inclusive visitor experiences— qualities that build trust and enhance event satisfaction.
4
Preparedness
Builds Confidence From natural disasters to infrastructure disruptions, resilience is essential. DMAP-accredited organisations are required to demonstrate long-term strategies for business continuity, destination readiness and recovery planning.
5
Accreditation
Equals Accountability With 97 targeted standards, annual progress reviews and a five-year re-accreditation cycle, DMAP signals performance, accountability and global credibility. It’ s more than accreditation; it’ s proof of excellence.
With nearly 200 accredited destinations, DMAP is a trusted global mark of accountability, credibility and performance. When destinations invest in reputation, they reduce uncertainty for event organisers. When they earn DMAP accreditation, they send a clear message: we’ re prepared, we’ re strategic and we’ re worthy of your trust.
Learn more about the Destination Reputation research at: https:// destinationsinternational. org / destination-reputation
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