Institutional strengthenint and organizational learnig at a Tourism Foundation in Mato Grosso do Sul State (Brazil). A Prodetur Project

Abstract

The article discusses the process of institutional strengthening of Tourism Foundation – FUNDTUR, in Mato Grosso do Sul State, an action taken under the Tourism Development Program, in Brazil - PRODETUR. It has four steps: defining a management model, situational analysis of public management of tourism in Mato Grosso do Sul, definition of lines for institutional strengthening, definition of a plan for institutional strengthening. Different methods were used according to each stage. The first were an analysis of similar case studies and discussion groups. The other steps included interviews with the staff of the institution which manages tourism in the State (FUNDTUR) and with its partners; experiences carried out by the institution, working groups, SWOT analysis -following a process of organizational learning- and knowledge management. This is a pioneer project in Brazilian tourism public management and did contribute to the growth of the  institution responsible for implamentation due to the high participation achieved, and will be able to serve as a model for other public institutions. The early definition of a management model  facilitated the development of other stages and participation of the whole team at all stages was essential for the implementation of empowerment.