Synergies of scenario planning, innovation, and hospitality education: a dialogue with Ian Yeoman, Professor at the Hotel Management School Leeuwarden at NHL Stenden

Abstract

This edited transcript documents a dialogue between Rodney Westerlaken, Editor-in-Chief of Research in Hospitality Management, and Ian Yeoman, Professor of Disruption, Innovation and New Phenomena at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences. The conversation explores Professor Yeoman’s extensive background, his pioneering work in scenario planning and research into the future of hospitality, tourism and leisure, and his current role in shaping the future of hospitality education and research. The discussion explores the disruptive forces transforming the hospitality and tourism industries, such as the impact of artificial intelligence, demographic shifts and climate change. Furthermore, it highlights the critical role of design-based education in fostering innovative problem-solving and preparing the next generation of hospitality leaders. The dialogue offers valuable insights into the synergies between academic inquiry, industry collaboration and the imperative to address emerging global challenges.