Investigating the Factors Involved in Feasibility Studies of Tourism Development in Kermanshah Province: A Local Community Perspective

Considering the dependence of tourism on its host community and thus the interdependence of tourists and local residents, it could be argued that the culture and viewpoints of the local people may influence tourism activities. Therefore, the local community must be actively involved in the development process to ensure the success of feasibility studies, proper assessment of investments made in tourism, and the extension of tourism projects’ lifespan. In this regard, this study sought to perform a feasibility analysis of tourism activities, focusing on running a coffee shop in a representative tourist destination in Kermanshah Province, Iran. To this end, the tourism development project during the years 2019-2023 was examined in terms of financial and economic assessments, and the evaluation of its effects from the viewpoint of the local community. The financial and economic data were collected from the Statistical Center of Iran, and the data concerning the evaluation of the project’s effects from the local community’s perspective were gathered through a questionnaire. The results of the financial and economic feasibility study indicated that setting up the coffee shop was financially and economically viable and justified. On the other hand, the evaluation of the local residents’ viewpoint in this regard revealed that tourism could contribute to economic prosperity, the introduction of the region to others, feeling the sense of pride by the local people, and the restoration and reconstruction of historical buildings. This study attempted to identify the factors involved in the feasibility study of tourism and assess the local community's viewpoint regarding the effects of tourism. The findings of the study suggested that financial and economic feasibility studies along with an evaluation of the effects of tourism could contribute to the success of investment projects.