Assessing the Role of 3D Scanning and Digital Modeling in Enhancing Conservation, Interpretation, and Visitor Experience in Cultural Heritage Tourism
Abstract
Improved 3D scanning technologies and digital modeling measures in cultural heritage tourism settings are often regarded as beneficial for conservation, interpretation, education, and visitor experience. Explaining and evaluating digital adoption across heritage sites is thus important from management and policy development perspectives, which requires knowledge about the determinants involved in shaping tourism outcomes. This study presents an empirical framework aimed at assessing performance through TOPSIS, without adding complex procedures that could decrease the practical relevance that stakeholders attribute to their decisions. The application of a regression–correlation model aimed at future decision support in typically resource-limited heritage contexts, integrates expected outcomes from multiple performance variables. Analyzing quantitative and qualitative data from a case study project involving heritage site “Virtual Restoration” pilots, we demonstrate the importance of technical capacity and institutional conditions to any digital conservation strategy. Specifically, according to the results of the TOPSIS evaluation process, the key factors affecting the effectiveness of 3D scanning and modeling are analyzed, and a comprehensive prioritization framework is proposed. The results indicated that digital modeling improved the level of visitor engagement without reducing the authenticity of heritage interpretation. Results from a multivariate regression correlation model show that especially the quality of scanning outputs and the accuracy of modeling at their applied scale influences interpretive outcomes. The analysis suggests that digital interventions should be considered as strategic assets rather than barriers to heritage management strategies, and that closer attention be paid to technological integration and other contextual variables as drivers of sustainable tourism.