Overview & Purpose

The number and complexity of issues confronting local governments, community organizations and networks are rapidly increasing. There are significant differences in the capacity of local groups to deal with these issues and develop effective policies and efficiently manage resources. UW-Extension colleagues have concluded that all fields related to the development of community (broadly speaking) have undergone dramatic changes in the last 40 years. Community structures and organizations now need to know how to “play the game” and develop the “necessary expertise” to address community needs and build community capacity. All program areas of UW-Extension are positioned to lead processes and provide resources to our vast network of community networks in need of our assistance.

 

Fun, Simple, & Effective Tools for Community Vitality & Placemaking

This “Toolbox” (pdf) contains an overview of six tools used by UW-Extension:

• First Impressions (UW Webpage) :Community “secret shopper” exchange to provide visitor perspective.
  • First Impressions Guide & Report Example
• Business Walk: A simple and  effective  business  retention and  expansion program.
  • Business Walk Guide & Report Example
• Imageability Mapping: Adaptation of Kevin Lynch‘s technique for understanding how the community is put together and to identify areas for future investment.
• Capital Asset Inventory Tool: Assessment of community assets for development.
• S.W.O.T.(C.) Mapping: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, & Threats (Challenges) online mapping tool.
• Placemaking Assessment Mapping:  Online mapping tool for the 19 Principles of Placemaking