Assessment of UNESCO Global Geoparks websites for a public geocommunication

Abstract

This study proposes a semi-quantitative methodology for assessing the quality of the UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGp) websites. The study was based on mixed indicators (binary and ordinal) which were grouped into five dimensions (presentation, content, interactivity, usability, and special UNESCO information) and combined with multivariate assessment using Principal Component Analysis and the application of the focus group technique using Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis to propose geocommunication strategies. The evaluation matrix, comprising 36 indicators, defined three levels of development (“high”, “moderate”, and “emergent”) and was useful for monitoring website quality and enhancing its territorial value for geotourism, geoconservation, and geoeducation. The results from 156 websites showed a predominance of “moderate development” scores (52.56%) and highlighted positive indicators, such as contact information, geotourism details, mobile compatibility, news, and the UGGp logo. This study also presents the potential of immersive technologies, such as virtual reality and 3D tours, for disseminating geoeducational content. However, there is room for the improvement in interaction and information standardization on UGGp web platforms to ensure effective communication that enriches the user experience.