Perspectives on tourism development planning in Acapulco: conventional methods and complexity theory

Abstract For more than half a century, physical and rational tourism development plans have attempted to resolve Acapulco’s chronic internal dilemmas, yet the destination continues to deteriorate, thus bringing into question the philosophical foundation of the plans. In order to address this concern, this paper suggests a complexity theory-based approach to planning, as it provides a contrasting perspective from which to consider the functioning of a tourism system. Consequently, Acapulco is perceived as a complex adaptive system, with the case study research method employed as a means to explore several fundamental elements common to such systems. Data are collected by means of semi-structured interviews with key players associated with the industry and through analysis of relevant documentation. The study reveals that complexity theory has shaped the evolution of Acapulco in various ways and continues to influence its direction. The failure of policy-makers to conceive of the destination as a complex, dynamic and adaptive system has meant that many underlying issues have not been sufficiently addressed, thus resulting in the gradual depletion of its capitals, or resources. The findings consequently offer insight regarding the viability of complexity theory as an approach to destination management; that is, they support the notion that the reconceptualization of Acapulco as a complex adaptive system by policy-makers and planners would improve the development process and help to alleviate the problems afflicting the destination, providing a viable alternative to the methods currently in use.