A STYLE OF GROWTH OF COMPUTER AND INTERNET SECURITY BREACHES IN SRI LANKA

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Background

This paper represents the views towards the Computer & internet Security Breaches . Internet Security Breaches has Become the Trend in Modern Society .For this study  I Refer the “An analysis of the Growth of Computer and Internet Security Breaches” As the Base Article  regarding the Analyze of the Computer & internet security breaches. 

Methods

This paper surveys recent literature and in the field of Cyber crime, intending to find out the computer & internet security breaches . In order to gather primary data it is expected to use the Questioner.

Results

In this paper, researchers find that recent literature and the objectives of analysis computer & internet security breaches, and limitation of the cyber crime. and finally analyze the A style of growth of computer & internet Security breaches.

Discussion and Conclusion

This exploratory study investigates the usefulness of the budgets, limitation of the budgets and how to enhance the usefulness of the budgets.

Of the four propositions explored in this study, three (Propositions 1-3) were strongly confirmed while the remaining one (Proposition 4) was partially confirmed. In summary, the results of this study led us to conclude that

·         Relative increase in net instigation rate is related to relative increase in inhibition rate which implies that the increasing attack incidences will force organizations and governments to come up with means of preventing or reducing them

·         For computer and Internet-related attacks (bad innovations), the values of net         instigation rate is higher than values of inhibition rate, implying more efforts and resources need to be applied toward inhibiting attacks;

·         Different computer crimes and security breaches grow at different rates, which implies that all these crimes should not receive the same level of attention because some crimes are likely to spread more rapidly than others;

·         Real world practice does not always follow the common notion that as more attac incidents occur, more security technologies are used. This finding may imply that organizations and governments do not necessarily spend money on security measures in proportion to the frequency of attack incidences. Ninety percent of respondents in the  2002 survey, for example, used anti-virus software; however, at least 10-15% of  respondents did not detect any virus, due probably to non-use or ignorance [Power,  2002]. Viruses are among those attack incidents that caused financial losses.

 This article is a first attempt to identify the nature of growth of various computer and  Internet related crimes, using a sparse set of data. First, a model was selected for bad innovation modeling which can represent both imitative and inhibitive behaviors in attacks. Next, the model was used to derive and compare various types of attack statistics with a sparse set of data

An analysis of the legitimate coverage to minimize the cybercrimes in Sri Lanka

The purpose of this study is to find out the legitimate rules and regulations to minimize the cybercrimes in Sri Lanka and to find out the existing weaknesses of the cybercrime law and the level of minimization of cybercrimes.

The research study first analyses what is really meant by cybercrimes and the reasons for the emergence of cybercrimes. Then the study closely looks at how cybercrimes can be categorized under different sub units and cybercrime examples for each of such sub units.

The latter part of the research study highlights the importance of cyber rules and regulations in a situation where there is an increasing trend towards cybercrimes. Within this part it first looks at the current level of internet security in Sri Lanka. Subsequently it examines the level of awareness of the cybercrime laws and the level of strangeness of such laws. Finally the research study evaluates the behavior of cybercrimes in terms of changes in the current level of internet security; the level of awareness of the cybercrime laws and the level of strengthens of such laws.

The research findings emphasize that there is a strong relationship between the level of internet security in Sri Lanka, the level of awareness of cyber laws and the level of strength of such laws separately with the number of cybercrimes in Sri Lanka and it also evidences that there is an influential effect of aggregate impact of the three independent variables on the number of cybercrimes in Sri Lanka.

Based on the research findings, the level of existing weaknesses of cyber laws in Sri Lanka have been identified and suggestions to minimize such crimes have been provided accordingly.

 Suggestions to mitigate cybercrimes in Sri Lanka

 

Therefore as emphasized by the research findings, it is important to focus on increasing the level of internet security, the level of awareness regarding cyber laws and regulations and the level of strength of cyber laws in Sri Lanka as a solution to the increasing number of cybercrimes occurring within the country and across countries.

The national governing body of the country has a major role to implement actions in preventing and mitigating such internet related crimes. In doing so, assisting the rule makers to deal with cybercrimes and digital evidence is essential. Sri Lanka’s justice system must provide an effective framework for investigation and prosecution of cybercrimes. In addition to that the Computer crimes act enacted in Sri Lanka need to essentially reflect the society’s requirements by appropriately criminalizing the offences and providing adequate punishment mechanisms. It is mostly required by the national government to facilitate adequately to reforms in cyber laws to take account of more complex situations emerging on cyber related matters.

0n the other hand it is also important to enhance the capabilities and capacities of the cyber related agencies in Sri Lanka such as Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA), Computer Emergency Readiness Team (CERT) etc… to perform their duties in a more efficient manner.

Another key suggestion to the national government in Sri Lanka is to educating the community to protect themselves against internet related crimes. The government should be able to assist the internet users to understand the protective actions and to recognize the possible warning messages. This may be highly effective specially in mitigating financially motivated cybercrimes.

It is also suggested to partnering with the private sector industries to tackle the shared issues of cybercrimes by providing an adequate level of education and resources to such industries. This will lead the private sector to take responsibility for its own protection and to assist their clients to do the same.

AN ANALYSIS OF THE BARRIERS AND CHALLENGES OF E-LEARNING TO MANAGERS IN THE CORPORATE SECTOR EDUCATION

AN ANALYSIS OF THE BARRIERS AND CHALLENGES OF E-LEARNING TO MANAGERS IN THE CORPORATE SECTOR EDUCATION

E-learning is a global phenomenon and is central to many industries in the corporate sector as an additional method of training that complements more traditional methods of learning. E-learning can be considered in its infancy stage in local context and as such barriers must be identified so that corporate sector managers receive a successful implementation for their courses. This investigates that barriers are not only internal but also external through social, economic and political causes.

This paper aims to deal with what the barriers and challenges are when implementing E-learning the main barriers were cost, computer literacy and support from Human Resource (HR). To identify the attitudes towards implementing E-learning, where attitudes impact perception and positive attitudes are downgraded by intergroup rivalries. Also the merits and demerits of E-learning were identifies which were mainly reduction in costs and improvement in coordination process for merits but considered a less effective tool for managerial level and finally what solutions can be identified that will overcome these barriers and challenges namely HR, support mechanisms and government involvement.

 1.0     INTRODUCTION

Learning has taken a whole new meaning in the 21^st century. No more are learners confined to traditional methods of learning through text books and lecture rooms, but can access learning material and courses from places that aren’t remotely close to the learning centre. This is E-learning, where knowledge and skills could be gained electronically, through the use of computers and software. This information society promises an essential change in education, business practices and social interaction to name a few.

E-learning has increased in importance in recent times. With time scarce in the modern corporate world, effective and efficient methods need to be available to train employees especially managers. With the success of e-commerce, e-learning would be beneficial when dealing with the market. Managers of corporate sectors have to react fast to the volatile environment and cannot waste time by travelling to lectures. They must learn and apply it immediately to their respective jobs.

Globally, E-learning has seen an accelerated adoption in both public and private sectors. The increase in growth and accessibility of the internet has made it possible for its success. Developed countries have enhanced their operations and training process by capturing the advantages and potential opportunities of E-learning. It has become an accepted means of increasing skills and knowledge across the organization.

Developing countries however faces several barriers. Serious measures have yet to be taken in the corporate sector education to make them prepared for the volatile global economy. The digital gap is extremely high. Hence there are challenges in the awareness, acceptability and conduction of E-learning within the corporate sector employees and as such this analysis needs to be carried out so that this digital gap can become digital opportunities.  The study is based on What are the barriers and challenges of E-learning implementation to managers in the corporate sector

The benefits of E-learning aren’t seen by most companies in the corporate sector due to lack of proper implementation hence the identification of barriers is vital. Especially the managers of corporate sectors have no time to set work aside and attend traditional courses. E-learning’s needed so that that they can learn on their own time and apply it faster depending on the situation. The corporate sector organizations face high costs in training and must respond faster in comparison with competitors in the market.  These problems can be met if E-learning is implemented properly.

   BACKGROUND LITERATURE

 2.1 DEFINITION OF E-LEARNING

Its ways of combining work and learning strategies enhanced through technology and internet which offers a logical solution to company’s learning objectives as it can be accessed anywhere, anytime, by anyone (Vaughan et al, 2004).

2.2 HISTORY OF E-LEARNING

During the 1980’s and 1990’s there was a significant growth in students studying part time and through distance learning. There was a dramatic growth in non traditional learners beyond 18-24 age categories for instance women returning to work after child bearing. Flexible delivery became a mantra for tertiary educational institutions to satisfy these non traditional students while tapping into new national and global opportunities. (Williams and Goldberg, 2005)

Williams and Goldberg (2005) stated that the first signs of change emerged in the late 1970’s. Private enterprises rose in importance. State funded tertiary education faced cuts in government spending and there was pressure on universities to be creative on their funding sources. Hence e-learning was touted to be an economical and effective medium for courses. In the earlier days it was called Computer-based Teaching (CBT). This then shifted to Learning management systems in the mid 1990’s, operating almost exclusively on a local area network (LAN).

The dotcom boom and the unlimited promise of the World Wide Web followed. E-learning providers quickly sprung up with cheap and limitless efficient access to the internet. However this soon turned to dotcom crash as most returned to brick and mortar. E-learning turned out to be evolutionary than revolutionary, so as long as an institute has a strategy founded on quality it is possible to evolve. Finally E-learning delivery trend has accentuated since the turn of the century due to the emergence of the latest ICT where bandwidth and technology have reached new heights making it easier for E-learning to succeed. (Williams and Goldberg, 2005)

2.3 E-LEARNING IN DEVELOPED & DEVELOPING COUNTRIES

There is a wide digital gap that exists when comparing the level of e-learning in a developed and developing country.

Most developed countries have experienced the digital opportunities that are made available from E-learning. In U.S.A and Europe growth continues, with increased investment. Participation and involvement is increasing and the use of technology and intranets is at a mature stage (Newton, 2003). However certain Italian companies’ state e-learning is a non-effective training tool and didn’t consider it a positive experience in spite of adoption. Adoption still continues due to bandwagon pressures as competitors adopt to have an advantage (Comacchio and Scapolan, 2004). Gunawardana, (2005) states that even in the developed world, the predominance of English poses a serious obstacle to universal access.

Developing countries such as Nigeria are behind in adoption and there’s a low rate of diffusion of e-learning and usage. This is due to inadequate finance policy in engineering and technology (Folorunso et al, 2006). In Lebanon little has been done to widen access thereby widening the digital, social, economic and cultural gaps with the global information society, also supported by Gunawardana, (2005).

There’s lack of policies in recognizing e-learning degrees and language barriers exist (Abouchedid and Eid, 2004). Also in Nigeria the awareness level of a computer-based technology is a major determinant on the acceptability of certifications from e-learning organizations. Folorunso et al (2006)

Folorunso et al (2006) found that vendor issues, poor internet service, software quality and piracy are factors that continue to bridge the digital gap. Abouchedid and Eid (2004) stated that there’s restriction of internet connectivity as it’s given to one provider hence high priced bandwidth results. Also present in developing countries are the geographically limitations within city limits (Gunawardana, 2005)

2.4 E-LEARNING ADOPTION

There are certain factors that affect E-learning adoption. Comacchio and Scapolan (2004), whose objective was to understand implications of the diffusion process of e-learning in Italy, stated companies will adopt due to fear of competitive bandwagon pressures. Bandwagons occur if potential adopters perceive the risk that innovation is a success and if they don’t adopt, their performance will fall below the average performance of adopters. Their research was questionnaires for two sectors: 20 Pharmaceuticals, both Multinationals and Italian (large and medium firms) and 22 banks both large and small. Due to small sample in each sector, findings may not be as accurate

Therefore it can be said that if the industry is large with several competitors, E-learning is more likely to be adopted.

In the education industry cost seems to also be the underlying factor for the acceptability and adoption of e-learning in developing countries. Folorunso et al (2006) found cost affects acceptability of e-learning and is the underlying factor that’s responsible to the effects caused by all other factors found.

Also whether E-learning will be adopted and persisted depends on the how dynamic and volatile that industry is which results in scarce time. Hence time is a major impediment. Park and Wentling (2007) found that due to lack of time, if the system is not easy and efficient, courses aren’t completed and no return on training investment. Managers would feel too busy to participate as it required time off from their main stream of work because traditionally training does not occur during working hours. Hence fast paced industries may face a failure in E-learning.

2.5 CLASSIFICATION OF E-LEARNING

Classification	Presence*	E-Communication	Alias
Type I	Yes	No	Face to face
Type II	No	No	Self-Learning
Type III	No	Yes	Asynchronous
Type IV	Yes	Yes	Synchronous
Type V	Occasional	Yes	Blended/Hybrid-asynchronous
Type VI	Yes	Yes	Blended/Hybrid-synchronous

* Presence is defined as real-time presence where both instructor and learner are present at the time of content delivery; it includes physical and virtual presence.

According to Negash and Wilcox (2008), the above six types of classifications can be explained as follows:

• Face to Face – this is the traditional classroom setting but with the prevalence of E-learning tools used to support instruction. Both the instructor and learner are physically present. E.g. usage of power points.
• Self-learning – learners receive the content media and learn on their own. There is no physical or virtual presence and no e-communication. E.g. content on a CD.
• Asynchronous – The instructor prerecords the content and the learner accesses it at a later time. E-communication is not there at time of delivery but communicate frequently using e-learning technologies. E.g. e-mailing
• Synchronous – Instructor and learner do not physically meet but virtually meet therefore there is presence. E.g. live audio
• Blended/hybrid asynchronous – content is delivered through occasional physical meetings and via E-learning technologies the rest of the time. A combination of face to face and asynchronous learning.
• Blended/hybrid synchronous – E-communication is used extensively. Presence alternates between physical and virtual. E.g. classroom half the time and live audio for the rest.

Management Competence and Science graduates: A selected sample analysis

Management Competence and Science graduates: A selected sample analysis

This paper attempts to estimate the required level of management competence for a science undergraduate and expectation from the industry who have recruited science graduates for their companies for management jobs.

There are at least two different approaches used to conceptualize management competence. The first approach concerns the identification of characteristics that differentiate effective managers from less effective managers. The second approach concentrates on measuring the actual performance of managers in order to be effective. That mean simply, what managers actually do rather than what they can do. One advantages of the management competence approach is that the correct identification and explicit definition of competence statements and their underlying components reflect the complete domain of management. (Row, 1998) Boyatsis (1982) differentiate between the basic competence, including a generic knowledge, motive, trait, self-image, social role or skill required to perform a job satisfactorily and optimal competence that result in superior performance. Burgoyne (1988) advocates a model whereby situation-specific and basic analytical decision making skills. Rush and Evens (1993) provide another model with their skills pyramid. They emphasize the importance of literacy and innumeracy skills as being the most basic skills required for competency development.

Management education based upon the management competence approach have several components. Rush and Evers (1993) indicate that basic literacy and numerical skills should be acquired before the development of core competence. They also argue that technical skills may remain redundant without the development of core competence. The last few years have seen a rapid expansion in the number of courses offered by Sri Lankan universities, like management and accountancy studies. In 1980 to 1985 period there were 20 management related courses, now it is estimated that figure has grown to approximately 250 . Although the context and emphasis pf these course differ, they are usually combined with other subject areas and offered as with management or and management related subjects of their degree programs.

The most popular combination subjects include the science, (eg, Mathematics, Computing, Chemistry, Physics) Arts (economics, Sociology) and engineering degree.

This mixed degree format suggests that the study of management is viewed as being complementary if not supplementary to these traditional subject areas. The introduction of these courses could be viewed as an attempt to meet the needs of industry and commerce. Further courses containing management components pear to be highly attractive to potential students.

The quantitative data analyzed in this research were obtained through the use of competence. Statements incorporated into a questionnaire. The questions were connected to the relevant the management subjects which were very useful to the development of the companies 25 employers were contracted and directly questioned about the skills, knowledge and understanding requirements of science graduates. Very simple technique was used during interviews with very senior managers of the companies. 10 to 15 graduates from both science and management were worked  under these managers. First asked from them to mark the propriety numbers (1 to 10) of the list in order to make a efficiency of the organization. Then after that again asked from them to mark the property numbers according to same list what skills present science graduate in development of the organization.

Proposal Sample- AN ANALYSIS OF THE CURRENT DISASTER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IN THE TOURISM INDUSTRY OF SRI LANKA

AN ANALYSIS OF THE CURRENT DISASTER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IN THE TOURISM INDUSTRY OF SRI LANKA

ABSTRACT

Global tourism destinations are of the virtual norm that they are prone to disasters at some point in history due to the geographical diversity. Despite this factor, only few have integrated disaster management plans within the industry.

Therefore, the study illuminates on the importance of disaster management in the tourism sector with special reference to the never anticipated tsunami disaster that wiped out the southern coastal belt of Sri Lanka. The literature of the study critically argues the crucial factors that are associated with an effective tourism disaster management which will eventually contribute to the image of the tourism destination.

 Furthermore, to congregate information on the hypothesis of the variables, a deductive research approach will be adopted that will conduct a survey among the sample that encompass hotels operating in Down South coastal bed that were affected by the recent tsunami and is still vulnerable to natural disasters.

The study will utilize ANOVA and correlation coefficient as statistical techniques for the representation and analysis of the data gathered at the investigation phase.

Keywords; Disaster Management, Tourism Sector/ Industry, Tsunami

CHAPTER 1

1.1. INTRODUCTION

Disasters are classified into several types, namely natural and manmade. Earthquakes, floods, storms, volcanic eruptions are origins of natural hazards. Nuclear wars, atomic bombing, terrorism are of manmade disasters. According to the UN International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (2002), natural disasters comprise of hydro-metrological, geophysical and biological disasters.

The study specifies on natural phenomenon of the devastating tsunami disaster on Boxing Day 2004 that claimed many lives and caused catastrophic damage to most of the South East Asian countries. Given the extreme poverty of these regions, the disaster hindered tourism in the affected areas drastically causing a loss of billions of dollars to the industry. The act of god increased the vulnerability of the tourism sector of Sri Lanka which is a key employer for the country’s economic development and a valuable source of foreign reserves earnings.

Today, Climate control is a global issue and a challenge that tourism professionals are compelled to adhere to. It is evident that Sri Lankan tourism is currently at a booming stage due to the resolution of the civil war. Despite this factor, the industry is not immune to natural disasters as clearly demonstrated by the 2004 tsunami attack. Such major disasters lead to a change in the image of the tourism destination that consequently has a negative impact on the inflow of tourist arrivals to the country. Thus stimulating the need and emphasizing the significance for an effective disaster management.

This study is an attempt to highlight the substance of disaster management by analysing the lessons learned by the local tourism from the tsunami destruction which outlined the lack of risk identification that failed to encourage a proactive approach towards natural disasters. Furthermore, evaluates the prevailing national disaster mitigation programmes and the degree to which it yields success, along with conceptualizing stakeholder responsibilities in terms of preparedness by hotel organizations and supportive laws and regulations by respective authorities in order to improve the image of Sri Lanka to an upscale destination.

1.2. PROBLEM STATEMENT

What are the critical factors that determine an effective tsunami disaster management in Down South Coastal area hotels of Sri Lanka?

1.3. PROBLEM JUSTIFICATION

The experience and the lessons learned from the 2004 tsunami disaster specified certain problems that have lead to the implementation of tourism disaster management in Sri Lanka. First, the nation lacked a primary master plan for the management of inevitable disasters in terms of prediction, warning, evacuation and emergency relief activities that are related to proactive approach.

The immediate impact was reported by the government of a loss of USD 250 million to the tourism sector, followed by a drastic drop in the number of tourist arrival. The Down South coastal area was claimed to be the most affected zone, that damaged the livelihoods of 30,000 people involved in tourism including 107 deaths of tourists. Enormous impact was created on the Southern coastal line that has some of the world’s best known beaches and of which 48 hotels reported to be affected by the calamity.

The lack of coordination collaboration among stakeholders such as tourism organization and emergency response units were poor, where disaster awareness programmes were nil and community lacked knowledge on the existence of tsunamis and how to escape one. The absence of a fully responsible governmental unit outlined the incompetent institutional arrangement to address disasters at a national level and the lack of debriefing period to exchange experience to gain insights in order to seek improvement to prevent future disaster occurrence are examples of facts that justifies the above problem statement.

1.4. OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

1.      To find out the catastrophic effects of the tsunami devastation with regard to Down South tourism in Sri Lanka.

2.      To find out the significant changes that has occurred in the hospitality industry due to the tsunami disaster.

3.      To evaluate the existing deterrent measures engaged by the tourist authorities, in order to mitigate future occurrence of tsunami.

4.      To find out the relationship between the types of hotels and disaster recovery plans.

5.      To find out the challenges of implementing disaster management in the tourism industry.

1.5. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

To analyse the integrated approach taken towards a tourism disaster management by the country is the primary value of the study and the following are the target beneficiaries;

·         Tourists - to change the prevailing perception or rather behaviour of tourists towards the tsunami affected destinations and to guarantee safety and the effectiveness of the measures to mitigate future disaster occurrence.

·         Tourism Authority - to gain insights from the past disasters in order to offset pessimistic images for promotional purposes and to attract new tourism opportunities.

·         Government - to identify the existing gap of effectiveness of the national disaster management programmes in order to improve and plan for future disasters and contribute to economic development.

·         Hotel Organizations – to identify the importance of disaster management and integrate related strategic management policies in hotel operations in order to improve the company image.

·         Insurance Companies – in order to gather information to alter or modify necessary insurance policies with relation to natural disasters

·         Hotel employees – provides comprehensive information to understand the importance of preparedness in terms of engaging in necessary training.

·         Community- gain knowledge about the occurrence of tsunami and learn how to escape one in order to prevent damage to the livelihood of the people.

1.6. SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

The scope of the study is limited to analysing tourism disaster management with special reference to the 2004 tsunami devastation and fails to address other types of natural disasters that the tourism industry is exposed to.

The Sri Lankan coastal line coverage is of 1,330 kilometres of which 1,126 kilometres were affected. The study will only consider the South coastline and the rest will be omitted.

The research is furthermore limited to a hotel sample unit of five star, four star and three stars operating in selective areas of Down South coastal region of the Southern Province district of Sri Lanka. This sample may include hotels that were affected by the tsunami and new hotels which were established recently which did not suffer the damage.

CHAPTER 2 – LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 INTRODUCTION

The emergence of disaster management in the tourism industry has been advocated by much academic research due to the intensity and frequency of natural disasters with relevance to the geographical diversity of tourism. (International Federation of Red Cross and Crescents Societies 2006 cited in Hystad and Keller, 2008)

Studies by Burby & Wagner (1996) and Drabek (1992, 1994) have further emphasized that tourists are vulnerable to disasters than locals due to the fact that they are less independent in terms of their unfamiliarity with regards to local hazards and relied resources to avoid risks. Therefore, Sonmez et al, (1999) recommended that hospitality companies should manage disasters in a manner that gives priority or rather responsibility toward their guests.

According to Faulkner (2001); Kash & Darling (1998); Ritchie (2004), there is minimal proactive planning in the industry despite the increasing natural devastations; there by shedding light on the importance of disaster management in the tourism industry.

Faulkner (2001) had identified the need for long term disaster management therefore his study proposes a framework towards disaster management that includes six phases, namely; preparation, response, emergency, initial recovery, long term recovery and re-establishment.

Moreover, similar scholars such as Moe and Pathranarakul (2006) have identified an integrated approach towards natural disaster management and likewise Kurita et al (2006) attempts to evaluate the tsunami public awareness and the disaster management system of Sri Lanka.

 2.2 HOTEL STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT

Prior academic studies on tourism disaster management have emphasized on the fact that tourism industry is susceptible and vulnerable to disasters (Santana, 1998) such as the Southeast Asian tsunami that had catastrophic impact on the industry (Okumus and Karamustafa, 2005). Many arguments have been presented to address whether or not strategic management facilitates organizations to prevent or mitigate adverse effects of a disaster that unexpectedly originates from the external environment (Preble, 1997).

However, David (2003, p.15, cited in Tew et al., 2008) claims that organizations tend to be “more proactive than negative in shaping its own future” and “exerts control over its own destiny” due to strategic management. Therefore, there is a general notion that strategic management allows organizations to deal with disasters effectively. (Tew et al., 2008)

According to Yu et al (2006) tourism operators must develop a disaster management plan and integrate it to the organizations’ strategic planning and review the strategic plan frequently to identify any amendment in the strategic direction. Finally, training throughout all levels of the organization is vital for the disaster management plan to be effective since it is essential for managers to be prepared to cope with future occurrence of disasters (Chong, 2004). Siomkos et al, (2006) shared a similar view with relation to Greek luxury hotels’ proactive practices towards disaster management that stressed on the level of preparedness. Udugama’s (2008) concept paper on Sarvodaya highlighted the need for training of management and staff of the hotel community in order to foster disaster resilient and also to provide a disaster preparedness certification to make Sri Lankan hotels desirable.

 Handerson’s (2005, 2007) studies on hotels in Phuket, revealed a different management approach towards the 2004 Tsunami in terms of CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) activities that were critical factor for tourism disaster management. Contradicting arguments and criticism by Edgar and Nisbet (1996) stated that long range strategic planning is of little benefit to hospitality operators due to the inevitable nature of disasters and suggested that hotels should not try to overcome the environment rather change and adapt accordingly. Hence, it is noteworthy to state that there is a significant relationship between Hotel strategic management and tourism disaster management.

2.3 GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS

Studies by Hystad and Keller (2008) identified a destination tourism disaster management framework of which they emphasized on stakeholder responsibility for a successful tourism disaster management.

According to Cioccio & Michael, (2007); Faulker &Vikulov, (2001); Hystad and Keller (2005) majority of tourism organizations do not integrate disaster management strategies into their business; instead they tend to assume that a superior authority initiates a tourism disaster management plan. Therefore, it is evident that the government is the key stakeholder for the coordination of activities required for an effective disaster management. (Moe and Pathranarakul, 2006)

Buffer zones were announced to restrict reconstruction in tsunami affected countries (Wong, 2009).  Based on the lessons learned from the 2004 tsunami disaster, the government of Sri Lanka had considered various countermeasures (Kurita et al., 2006) which included the no-build buffer zone of 100m in the South. The Sri Lankan legislation with regards to the buffer zone was rather confusing since hotels were allowed to remain within the zone with restrictions for new ventures (Wong, 2009).

Moe and Pathranarakul’s (2006) study on an integrated approach towards disaster management advocated that governmental supportive laws and regulations is a CSF (Critical Success Factor) for successful disaster management. In addition to this, Tingsanchali (2005) argued that due to 34 laws that are associated to disasters in Thailand, many tourism organizations faced authority confusions. Hence, it is theoretically pointed out that supportive laws and regulations must be established and enforced for effective disaster management.

As stated by Hystad and Keller (2008) the role of a government becomes crucial during a post- tsunami recovery period and there by hotels expect Tourist Authorities under the state governance to provide leadership for the collaboration between tourism organizations and emergency response agencies. The study further states that the resolution stage should be a debriefing period among the respective authorities and hotels for the transfer of knowledge among the groups in order to improve tourism disaster management. 

2.4 LOCAL PRESSURE GROUPS

As identified by Ritchie (2004) the media is considered to be a crucial stakeholder in the event of a disaster with relation to the communication of information to various public including tourists. He further elaborates on its importance due to its ability to restore confidence in a disaster affected tourist destination during its long term resolution stage.

Contradicting arguments have been made by similar studies on the negative media coverage due to severe impact of disasters on the hospitality industry. Hall (2002) gave emphasis to the influential power of the media that may consequently result in a shift of the public’s image of a destination and tourist perceptions on disaster management in the tourism sector.

Faulkner (2001) claims that media will make possible to disseminate warnings on potential disasters and simultaneously hinder the execution of an emergency operation by broadcasting false information and further criticising such operations. However, media is an essential ingredient in Faulkner’s (2001) framework towards a tourism disaster management.

Based on the main findings by Vassilikopoulou et al (2009), the study suggests that hotel operators should establish a positive interaction with the media through a two way communication. Additionally, the media must be exposed to accurate information that will improve the tourism sector’s image.

Apart from the media, studies by Udugama (2008) show that the THASL (Tourist Hotals Association of Sri Lanka) has a significant influence on the development of the local tourism sector. It is known to be the only formal body representing all hotels in Sri Lanka and contributes to the formulation of disaster management plans for the country’s hospitality industry. 

These arguments presented in this section demonstrate the relationship between local pressure groups and its impact on tourism disaster management. Therefore it is advisable for hotels to develop a network of contacts and encourage long term mutual beneficial relationships with the respective pressure groups (Vassilikopoulou et al., 2009). 

2.5 GOVERNMENT INFRASTRUCTURE

Recent studies indicated that the government of Sri Lanka was inadequately prepared for natural disasters since the country never anticipated a major tsunami. Although the government has initiated disaster mitigation plans, the lack of experienced officials, insufficient resources and the absence of a proper disaster management system fell short to accomplish productive results (Kurita et al., 2006).

Moe and Pathranarakul (2006) had identified that the lack of a proactive approach consequently led to the catastrophic damage and significant number of deaths including tourists. However, the same study outlines the CSFs (Critical Success Factors) for a viable disaster management that highlights the need for an effective information system that is important for sharing vital information among stakeholders to engage in planning and early warning.

Another key factor identified by the authors is effective disaster logistics that includes technology such as GIS (Geographic Information System) and furthermore underlines the requirement of sufficient funds which are all of Government stakeholder responsibilities. A study by Oloruntoba (2005) on post tsunami recovery supports and shares a similar view.

Studies by Gamage and Halpin (2007) on the status of information and communication technology (ICT) imply that it is mainly concentrated in the urban area there by indicating a slow and uneven growth which constitutes a problem for the productive outcomes of the early warning mechanism.

Arguments presented by Perry (2007) reveal that government infrastructure is very much needed for natural disaster management planning. Therefore it is evident that the lack of government infrastructure impedes the efficacy of a tourism disaster management. 

2.6 PREVIOUS TSUNAMI IMPACT

The Sri Lankan tourism sector along with other Southeast Asian countries suffered a tremendous loss due to the calamity of the 2004 tsunami. Ritchie (2004) identified that tourism is an important economic sector in this region that contributes to the majority of the nations’ growth and survival.

Therefore, due to the immense pressure on tourism managers, the need to assess the extent of the damage is important to devise strategies to cope with the impact that hampers the interest of tourism.

Studies by Robinson and Jarvie (2008) specified that tourism in the coastal belt of Sri Lanka that consisted of hotels, restaurants and other entertainment facilities were either partially or completely wiped out. A total of USD 250 million of the tourism sector was estimated by the World Bank (2005, cited in Robinson and Jarvie, 2008).

The authors further stated that the tidal waves had a major impact on the island’s inland tourism due to the misperception that the entire land was affected that lead to a decrease in the inflow of tourist arrivals..

Another consequence of the tsunami would be the increase in travel insurance as disclosed by Zhang’s (2005) study on tourism in China. It was evident that the disaster encouraged or rather promoted the purchase of casualty insurance.

Wang’s (2009) investigation revealed that the impact of disasters in terms of safety impedes the tourism demand.

Scrutinizing the gravity of the impact of the tsunami disaster will outline common problems that are associated with disaster management (Moe and Pathranarakul, 2006) which will further stimulate the need for one in the tourism sector that ensures safety of tourists. Analysis of such consequences of natural disasters will seek for solutions within a disaster management context (Ichinosawa, 2006).  

CHAPTER 03 – RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1. CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

Independent Variables                                                         Dependent Variable

Figure 1 – Conceptual frame work Source: (Author’s work, 2010)

Government Infrastructure

Previous tsunami impact

Local Pressure groups

Government regulations

Hotel strategic management

H1 11

H2

H3

H4

H5

Tourism Disaster Management

 

 

3.2 HYPOTHESIS

Ho – there is no positive relationship between tourism disaster management factors and tourism disaster management.

Ha – there is a positive relationship between tourism disaster management factors and tourism disaster management.

	Hypothesis
H1	Ho1 - there is no positive relationship between Hotel strategic management towards disaster mitigation and tourism disaster management. Ha1 - there is a positive relationship between Hotel strategic management towards disaster mitigation and tourism disaster management.
H2	Ho2 – there is no positive relationship Government regulations between and tourism disaster management. Ha2 - there is a positive relationship between Government regulations and tourism disaster management.
H3	Ho3 - there is no positive relationship between Pressure Groups and tourism disaster management. Ha3 - there is a positive relationship between Pressure Groups and tourism disaster management.
H4	Ho4 – there is no positive relationship between Government Infrastructure and tourism disaster management. Ha4 – there is a positive relationship between Government Infrastructure and tourism disaster management.

H5	Ho5 - there is no positive relationship between Previous tsunami impact on Down South tourism and tourism disaster management. Ha5 - there is a positive relationship between Previous tsunami impact on Down South tourism and tourism disaster management.

Table 1- Hypothesis                                                    Source: (Author’s work, 2010)

3.3 POPULATION

The population for the study comprises of hotels operating in the Southern coast of Sri Lanka. The prime reason for the chosen population is due to the extent of the severe impact of the 2004 calamity of tsunami to this region, which consequently led to the partial or complete closure of majority of the hotels in Galle, Hambantota and Matara (Gupta, 2005).

The Down South coastal belt is best known for its’ beaches and other assets that are main tourist attractions. Among them is the Dutch Fort in Galle that was designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and additionally the surf, snorkelling and diving destinations such as Hikkaduwa and Unawatuna that were vulnerable to the tidal waves. Therefore, it is the ideal population to identify the critical factors for an effective tourism disaster management.

3.4 SAMPLE TECHNIQUE

The study will initially utilize the clustering method due to the grouping of the population. Later the stratified sampling technique will be applied to derive at a sample which will encompass homogeneous descriptive categorization of 3 to 5 star hotels which is known as strata. This method will facilitate to eliminate errors and reduce biasness of the research. 

3.5 SAMPLE

As per the above sampling technique, the sample size will consists of 3, 4 and 5 star hotels of the Southern coastal line that were affected by the tsunami tragedy and is yet exposed to future occurrence of potential tsunami disasters. The following exhibit and table illustrates the derived sample of 35 hotels that is essential to congregate information to determine the purpose of the study.

3.5.1 Sample illustration

35 Star Hotels

Location	5 Star Hotels	4 Star Hotels	3 Star Hotels
Bentota	·  Saman Villa ·  Taj Exotica ·  Heritance Hotel ·  Triton	·  Tamarind Hill Hotel ·  Bentota Beach Hotel ·  Indiriwa Beach Resort	·   Hotel Serendib ·   Hotel Club Villa ·   Induruwa Beach Hotel ·   Emerald Bay Hotel ·   Lihiniya Surf Hotel
Hikkaduwa			·   Coral Sands Hotel ·   Amaya Reef ·   Coral Gardens Hotel ·   White House Villa ·   Sunils beach
Galle	·  The Fortress	·  Jetwing Light House Hotel ·  Galle Fort	·   Closenberg Hotel ·   The Fortress ·   Villa Araliya
Unawatuna		·  Kosgoda Beach Resort	·   Off Rocks Villa ·   Unawatuna Beach Resort
Hambanthota	·  Elephant corridor	·  YalaVillage	·   Peacock Beach Hotel
Matara	·  Weligama Mandara Resort ·  Amanwella Resort		·   Surf Lanka Hotel ·   Weligama Bay Beach ·   Dickwella Resort

Table 2- Sample Unit - Hotels of Down South                     Source:(Author’s work, 2010)

3.6 RESEARCH APPROACH

The study will adopt a deductive approach considering the time contingency and the research characteristics. Such an approach was previously used by similar studies (Hystad and Keller, 2008) to test the relationship or rather the validity of the hypothesis on a top down approach. 

3.7 RESEARCH STRATEGY

A survey method was conducted as the research strategy to congregate information for the analysis of the hypothesis. In terms of gathering primary data a questionnaire is distributed among the sample for the essence of the investigation. Furthermore, interviews will be held with respective authorities to obtain quality comprehensive information (Kurita et al., 2006).

Secondary data will be associated with books, journal articles, statistics and census for the measurement of the appropriate variables.

3.8 OPERATIONALIZATION

Name of the variable	Definition	Type of Question/ Description	Type of Data	Measurement
Independent	The extent to which hotels have integrated disaster management into strategic management	I believe my staff members are well trained and know how to protect themselves from a tsunami.	Interval	Likert Scale
Hotel Strategic Management
Government Regulations	The extent of the government’s influence on mitigation of disasters.	Government has enforced supportive laws to mitigate tsunami disasters.	Interval	Likert Scale
Local Pressure Groups	The impact of local pressure groups on tourism disaster management.	Media’s influence is important to determine an effective tourism disaster management.	Interval	Likert Scale

Previous tsunami impact	The extent of damage to the tourism sector by the tsunami.	Local tourism sector have obtained insights and knowledge from the lessons learned.	Interval	Likert Scale
Government Infrastructure	The inadequate resources for the implementation and effectiveness of the tourism disaster management.	Lack of government infrastructure is a challenge to overcome in tourism disaster management.	Interval	Likert Scale
International Standards	The set standards by international bodies the tourism sector has to adhere to.	Local tourism sector’s disaster management is in par with international standards.	Interval	Likert Scale
Dependent	The effectiveness of the prevailing tourism disaster management.	A successful tourism disaster management is crucial to promote Sri Lanka as a viable destination.	Interval	Likert Scale
Tourism Disaster Management

Table 3 - Operationalization Chart                             Source: (Author’s work, 2010)

3.9 PROPOSED STATISTICAL METHOD

For the evaluation of the significant relationship between the dependent and independent variables Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), correlation coefficient and T- statistics will be used since previous research such as Vassilikopoulou et al (2009) and Chen (2010) approve the above methods to be suitable for the representation of data.  

CHAPTER 4 – CONCLUSION

The predicament of the study is to emphasize on disaster management in the tourism industry, with relevance to identifying the factors that determine an effective tsunami disaster management in the Southern coastal belt of Sri Lanka.

The objectives for the study were there by devised accordingly. The critical literature review theoretically demonstrates the significant relationship of the respective hypothesis based on previous academic research.

A stratified sampling method will be applied to develop a precise sample size. Additionally, deductive research approach will be adopted in order to congregate information on the validity of the hypothesis in terms of a questionnaire and face to face interviews with the chosen sample for the collection of primary data.

Coping with natural disasters is a challenge in modern tourism management and is beneficial to the tourism sector when executed properly. Thus, the prime aspect of the study will enable the domestic tourism sector and other key stakeholders such as tourists to conclude whether or not Sri Lanka is a viable tourism destination.

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