Work Package 3 (WP3) builds upon the analytical and conceptual results of WP1 and WP2 to design and develop a digital Sustainability Self-Assessment Tool for small and medium-sized accommodation providers. This tool is the project’s central output — a practical, user-friendly platform that helps SMEs evaluate their sustainability performance, identify areas for improvement, and progress towards ISO 21401:2018 compliance.
Activity 3.1 – Market Search: Digital Inventory of Existing Tools
The first phase of WP3 focused on conducting a global digital inventory of existing sustainability assessment tools for the accommodation sector. The objective was to analyze their functionality, usability, and scope, identifying best practices while avoiding common limitations. This analysis provided the foundation for designing a tool that is modern, practical, and specifically tailored to the needs of SMEs.
📄 Deliverable 3.1 – Market Search Report
Activity 3.2 – Planning and Software Design
Following the market research, the consortium defined the technical and functional specifications of the tool. This phase involved requirements analysis, software architecture planning, and design validation by project experts. The planning ensured that the tool would be accessible, intuitive, and aligned with the sustainability goals of the accommodation industry.
Activity 3.3 – Content Creation and Criteria Definition
The project partners collaboratively developed the content and assessment criteria that form the core of the tool. Based on the results of WP1 and WP2, these criteria reflect environmental, social, and economic indicators relevant to the accommodation sector. Careful selection and validation of content ensure that the tool remains practical and relevant to SMEs.
Activity 3.4 – User-Based Assessment (Beta Release)
A beta version of the tool was tested with real users to gather feedback on its functionality, usability, and accuracy. SMEs and partners assessed the interface, response logic, and clarity of questions, providing valuable insights for refinement.
Activity 3.5 – Improvement of the Tool
Using a continuous improvement approach (“Plan–Do–Study–Act”), the consortium incorporated feedback from testing and validation phases (WP4) to enhance the tool’s performance, structure, and clarity. This process ensures the tool is robust, adaptable, and effective for SMEs in different contexts.
Activity 3.6 – Official Presentation and Training Webinar
A joint training and presentation webinar will be organised to introduce SMEs to both the Sustainability Protocol (developed in WP2) and the Self-Assessment Tool. This session will guide participants on how to use these tools, interpret results, and integrate sustainability into their business operations. Participants will also have the opportunity to provide feedback for final adjustments.
Activity 3.7 – Production of the Final Self-Assessment Tool
The final phase of WP3 involves the production and release of the completed Sustainability Self-Assessment Tool. The final version will enable accommodation SMEs to assess their sustainability level, monitor progress, and identify priority areas for action across the three pillars of sustainability in line with ISO 21401:2018.
📄 Deliverable 3.7 – Final Sustainability Self-Assessment Tool (in progress)
