IMPLEMENTATION OF SMART VILLAGE TOWARDS THE DEVELOPMENT OF KEMUNING TOURISM VILLAGE, NGARGOYOSO DISTRICT, KARANGANYAR REGENCY

Abstract

This study aims to describe the implementation of the Smart Village program in Kemuning Village and analyze its development strategy in supporting the transformation of the village into a digital tourism destination based on local potential. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach with data collection techniques in the form of observation, in-depth interviews with stakeholders, distributing questionnaires to the community and tourists, and documentation. Respondents consisted of village officials, tourism managers, local MSME actors, and the general public who were selected purposively and incidentally. The results of the study show that the implementation of Smart Village in Kemuning Village has covered three main dimensions, namely Smart Governance, Smart Society, and Smart Economy. However, its implementation has not been optimal, especially in terms of community digital literacy, utilization of public service applications, and integration of technology in economic activities and tourism promotion. Based on the SWOT analysis, the main strength of the village lies in the adequate ICT infrastructure and institutional support from the village government and external parties. The weaknesses faced include limited human resources for technology managers, low community participation in the digitalization program, and lack of infrastructure equity between village areas.