Digital Visitor Management in the Region Seefeld

Since 2022, the Region Seefeld has been measuring visitor numbers at selected points of interest (POIs) using anonymized mobile phone data. Until now, this data has only been observed, not actively used – its potential for real-time visitor management remained untapped. At the same time, peak overcrowding during high season and an uneven distribution of visitors have become increasingly noticeable. The project aims to use data-based visitor management to balance nature protection, quality of experience, and local economic benefits.

16 points of interest in the region were defined where visitor numbers are systematically measured. Based on this, a forecasting model was developed, offering 7-day predictions while including weather data and school holiday calendars from key source markets. Specific ideas for visualizing the data in a user-friendly way are already being developed.

The technical implementation – especially training the machine-learning model – is complex. Correctly interpreting the data, such as understanding “when is it too crowded?”, is another challenge. A further hurdle is presenting the data in a way that is both user-friendly and visually clear. It’s also important to balance the interests of different stakeholders.

The model will be further developed and expanded with additional data, such as event schedules and inputs from the region’s seven new weather stations. A more precise definition of the points of interest is also planned. The goal is to integrate the forecasts into several guest touchpoints – for example, through info screens in hotels.