Human Resource Digital Readiness for Sustainable Ecotourism Development: A Conceptual Framework Linking Digital Literacy, Training, Knowledge Sharing, and Community-Based Tourism Performance

Abstract

Purpose of the study — This study aims to develop a conceptual framework of Human Resource Digital Readiness for Sustainable Ecotourism Development by linking digital literacy, training, knowledge sharing, human resource digital readiness, and community-based tourism performance. The study addresses the need to explain how local human resources transform digital capabilities into sustainable ecotourism value.

Research Methodology: This study uses a conceptual review design with an integrative literature review approach. Literature was synthesized from peer-reviewed journals, academic books, and institutional reports related to human resource management, digital transformation, sustainable tourism, ecotourism, and community-based tourism. The analysis was conducted through theory-driven thematic synthesis using the resource-based view, knowledge-based view, dynamic capabilities theory, and ability-motivation-opportunity theory.

Result— The study proposes that digital literacy, training, and knowledge sharing strengthen human resource digital readiness. Human resource digital readiness is then positioned as a mediating capability that transforms human resource development practices into community-based tourism performance. The framework explains that digital transformation in ecotourism does not depend only on technology adoption, but also on the readiness of local actors to understand, accept, use, share, and develop digital technology for sustainable destination management.

Conclusion— This study concludes that sustainable ecotourism development requires digitally ready local human resources who are able to integrate digital skills, service capability, conservation knowledge, and community collaboration. The framework provides practical guidance for tourism village managers, ecotourism operators, local governments, and community facilitators in designing digital literacy programs, training models, and knowledge-sharing mechanisms.

Limitations: This study contributes to tourism management, sustainable ecotourism, community-based tourism, human resource management, and digital transformation studies by positioning human resource digital readiness as a community-level capability that bridges human resource development practices and sustainable ecotourism performance.
Contribution: This study contributes to tourism management, sustainable ecotourism, community-based tourism, human resource management, and digital transformation studies.