Place Branding for Small Cities, Regions and Downtowns

Book excerpt: Boost tourism, economic development, and community pride by understanding and mastering the art and science of place branding. "Baker's previous books were instant hits and considered classics. In this one, he takes place branding to the next level." - Dr. Florian Kaefer, The Place Brand Observer In this NEW, UPDATED, and EXPANDED edition Bill Baker presents proven techniques and real-world examples for transforming tourism, economic development, placemaking and wayfinding. He is straight to the point and gives you the nuts and bolts to reveal and manage a sustainable destination brand. PLACE BRANDING SIMPLIFIED "This book tackles the confusion, challenges, limitations, misconceptions, and the scope of place branding." - Robert Govers, Chair, International Place Branding Association 'Place Branding' explores the scope and dynamics of place branding, and provides step-by-step processes to research, define and deploy a winning brand strategy. Each chapter demystifies what can sometimes seem like complex concepts and practices required to establish and manage a competitive identity. PLACE BRANDING BEYOND LOGOS "Bill Baker does a great job of distilling the nuance of not just brand building, but the equal necessity of place building." - Maura Allen Gast, Executive Director, VisitIrving (TX) Baker explains why community partnerships are needed to bring a destination brand to life and create a beloved sense of place. He joins the dots to pinpoint issues related to the organization, staff, partnerships, regulations, experience delivery, placemaking, wayfinding, government policies, and personnel to make the point that success takes more than marketing communications and logos. NEW FRONTIERS AND TRENDS "This book is packed with killer insights. In his latest book, Bill Baker continues to redefine the art and science of community brands." - Bill Geist, Chief Instigator, DMOproz 'Place Branding' spotlights the trends reshaping the practice, scope and dynamics of place branding. It illustrates how place branding must embrace changes, as diverse as technology, consumer behavior, placemaking, urban design, organization roles, sustainability, an experiential focus, more engaged communities, and more. At the same time, he shows how small places must fit into a louder and more crowded world. WHO SHOULD READ THIS BOOK? "Bill Baker's words always entice and engage audiences at every level of expertise. Here, he targets newcomers to place branding, but his words are a good refresher for old-timers alike." - Erik Wolf, CEO, World Food Travel Association Whether you are new to place marketing and branding or you're seeking fresh inspiration, this is essential reading for destination marketers, DMOs, Boards and Committees, Chambers of Commerce, Downtown Associations, economic development managers, urban design teams, government leaders, as well as students and academics. WHAT'S INCLUDED? Reading 'Place Branding', you will: Discover the latest place branding trends and new applications Understand why many place branding efforts are doomed before they start Discover effective ways to bring your community's brand to life Access dozens of helpful tips and useful checklists Understand why branding is even more important in the Digital Age Gain valuable insights from some of the world's leading place branding consultants, academics and practitioners