Specifications include, but are not limited to: The main goal of this project is to evaluate Minnesota’ six State operated Welcome Centers. Research should focus on visitors’ awareness of Welcome Centers, primary purpose for stopping at Welcome Centers and evaluation of the strengths, weaknesses, and perceived value of Welcome Center facilities and travel information resources. Research should collect data about traveler demographics, trip plans and the influence of Welcome Centers and travel counselors on spending. Specific desired research metrics are annual Welcome Center visitation, number of visitors that meet with travel counselors and Welcome Centers’ and return on investment (ROI). Sample Tasks and Deliverables. A. Working with EMT, gain a well-rounded understanding of visitor service delivery at Minnesota’s six State operated Welcome Centers. B. Work in cooperation with EMT to refine a methodology to best fulfill project goals and execute the plan in a timely manner. Data collection should start no later than Memorial Day weekend, which is the start of our peak travel season. C. Collect data from a large, representative sample of visitors to the six State operated Welcome Centers, including Minnesotans and travelers from the Midwest. D. Prepare and deliver a detailed, written report of Welcome Center research observations and qualitative and quantitative findings and conclusions and user information, including, but not limited to: • breakout of Minnesota residents versus out-of-state travelers (including point of origin and final destination) • breakout of users actively on a trip or planning a trip versus other travel purposes • cross-tabs by Welcome Center location • ROI by location as well as combined ROI • average spend per trip, and separate breakouts for day and overnight trips E. Provide recommendations on possible changes to the six State Minnesota operated Welcome Centers for evolving the six State of Minnesota operated Welcome Centers. F. Present findings to EMT management and potentially to the EMT Council and/or other meetings as requested
