Julie Pingston: Developing a Sensory Sensitive Destination

09/18/19 • 30 min

DMOU: Destination Marketing Organization University

DMOs often talk about making their destinations “Visitor Ready,” but what about those prospective visitors that are unable to experience our communities due to sensory or developmental issues? On this edition of DMOU, the Greater Lansing MI’s Julie Pingston walks us through how a sensory-friendly theatrical performance of “The Lion King” led to a complete re-thinking of how the Organization would reach out to this previously under-served market. And, you’ll learn how they have engaged over 850 individuals in the community to be trained to assist these individuals.

Previous Episode

Greg DeShields: The Power of PHL Diversity

Targeting Multi-Cultural Meetings and Conventions is nothing new. Destinations like Chicago began addressing this lucrative market over 40 years ago. But, PHL Diversity, a division of the Philadelphia CVB, has taken its work in the space 360 by dedicating their efforts to also ensure that the Multi-Cultural community is visitor ready. PHL Diversity’s Greg DeShields shares the story of how his agency engages Philadelphia’s Multi-Cultural partners to ensure that they benefit from the visitor economy while connecting event planners to authentic experiences while in market.

Next Episode

Jack Johnson: Destination Marketing as a Community Shared Value

Destination Marketing has never been more politicized...but recent budget attacks have actually indicated a path forward in the way we communicate the value of what we do. Destination International’s Jack Johnson shares the research behind the new lexicon that DMO pros will need to employ to establish Destination Marketing as a Community Shared Value. You’ll also hear Jack’s take on refining our message from one of logic and fact to one utilizing emotion in order to capture the imagination and support of residents and community leaders.

And, to see Jack's presentation on the subject from this year's Annual Convention of Destinations International, click HERE.