Design of the future sustainable socio-technical sub-system in more detail
Actors, problem definition, needs & interests
In the previous chapter is elaborated on the actors of the current sub-system, in this case the current public space. This chapter includes also the actors of the future subsystem and its design. Besides, the actors, their needs and interests and the problem definition will be defined in this chapter. The question that also needs to be answered in this chapter is: "Who are actors, their problem definitions, needs, interests etc.?".
Vision
Our ambition for Texel is to become a sustainable pioneer for the Netherlands and surrounding Wadden Islands by improving the knowledge of the tourist about the sustainable solutions of Texel. As our sub-system concerns the public space, we want to share this knowledge via this platform. This vision will have an impact on the future sub-system of Texel.
Actors
The current target groups are both tourists and Texelaars of 45 years and older. It is assumed that the population of Texelaars will remain approximately the same. The group of people of 20 to 40 years old will probably stay the smallest group because of the study and career opportunities, which are not so present at Texel. It is expected that the migration numbers of people moving from and to Texel will be the same and the number of inhabitants is also not expected to change. Therefore, the focus for future public space for Texelaars remains on the age group of 45 years and older.
However, the age group of tourists could be influenced more easily. They stay at the island for a couple of days instead of living there, which results in totally different needs. The tourists currently visiting Texel, consist especially of tourist from the age group of 45-64 years old. The second largest group is the group of teenagers. A group with a lot of potential is the age group between 18 and 44 year. The age group of 18-25 years is almost not visiting Texel. However, the Texelaars probably do not mind the absence of that age group because they can cause some disturbances (especially during the night). Families with children however, are less disruptive and therefore very welcome at Texel. Besides, parents want to do activities with their kids. An educational activity aligns perfect with the vision.
The majority of the tourists come from the Netherlands. Also a lot of Germans visit the island. However, if Texel becomes a pioneer for sustainable development, it would be desirable if people from other (surrounding) countries visit Texel as well.
Problem definition
No problem definition was defined from the current public space due to absence of knowledge about the public space of Texel. However, it is possible to state that the future public space should fulfil an educational function or a function that supports the education about Texel its sustainability.
The age group of people of 45-64 years has already a kind of bonding with Texel. It is not expected that this bonding will decrease because of the measures that will be implemented for Texel as a sustainable pioneer. Therefore the focus will be on the families with children. The challenge for this sub-system is to attract families to come visit Texel and learn something about sustainable development by the implementation of sustainable public space.
Needs and interests
In the previous paragraph conclusions are drawn about the actors and the problem definition. The goal is to attract families with children to come visit Texel and learn something about sustainable development. Some aspects that could attract families are:
- Activities (especially for kids)
- Safe accommodation
- Possibilities for the kids to play
- Beaches and nature
- (Public) spaces where interaction can take place
- Comfort (including thermal, social, etc.)
- Restaurants
Families do need a car to visit Texel because of the kids and the luggage they need to carry with them. This requires enough space on the ferry, accessible accommodations and parking lots.