Digitalizing Heritage: A GIS-QR Integrated Framework for Smart Tourism Development in Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark

Abstract : As the tourism industry undergoes a digital transformation, the integration of advanced technologies is becoming essential for managing complex heritage sites. This study proposes a comprehensive framework for digitalizing tourism resources in Cao Bang province, a region characterized by the UNESCO Global Geopark status. The research focuses on two core technical objectives: the construction of a multi-layered Geographic Information System (GIS) database and the deployment of Quick Response (QR) code interfaces to optimize data accessibility. Using a mixed-methods approach, including spatial data modeling and a survey of 475 stakeholders, the findings reveal that a unified GIS-QR ecosystem significantly enhances the "on-site" experience for tourists while providing authorities with a robust tool for resource monitoring. Specifically, the high digital readiness of visitors (79.3% adoption rate) underscores the potential for smart tourism transition in mountainous border regions. The study further addresses technical barriers by proposing encrypted dynamic QR codes and a hybrid offline-online access model. Ultimately, this research provides both a theoretical model and a practical roadmap for transforming traditional heritage assets into digital tourism resources, ensuring sustainable development in the era of Industry 4.0.