Explanation of the Advantages of Using WASPAS Technique on the Positioning of Tourism-Target Villages (Case Study of Tourism-Targeted Villages of Lorestan Province)

As the recognition of phenomena in the surrounding world, expression of natural-humanistic realities, and spatial systems are based on a strong theoretical foundation, the use of quantitative methods and models is regarded as an essential and powerful tool for the better identification of them. Today, the use of numerical and statistical techniques has become customary in the research domain of these sciences. This study is an attempt to explain the advantages of using Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment integrated decision-making technique. WASPAS is a very precise technique whose decision matrix is based on objective data and has applications in decision-making on critical issues. Therefore, this study has put its emphasis on prioritization of tourism-targeted villages by means of WASPAS technique. For this reason, selection criteria are based on spatial indexes. A descriptiveanalytic method is employed for the conduct of this research. To this end, studies pertinent to the specialized field of tourism were used in order to identify the indexes of tourism-targeted villages. Accordingly, 13 criteria and48 sub-criteria were identified and were used as a foundation for data collection on rural tourism. The centrality index was used to calculate the score of each criterion each of which consists of a number of sub-criteria. In fact, the score of each criterion was calculated according to its sub-criteria. Thereafter, the evaluation model of WASPAS was used to prioritize tourist villages. The results of this study show that Darb Gonad, Bisheh, and Valiasr are the villages with the highest capability for the development of and investment in tourism activities. In contrast, Scholl Abad, Heshmat Abad, and Vanaii are equipped with a relatively lower potential for development in this regard. In fact, the output of the model matches the existing reality well.