Successful downtowns, tourism and economic development don’t just happen. And success is not the result of simply running great looking ads. It’s the result of detailed planning that addresses the three primary components of a successful community: branding (what you are known for), product development (what you have to build so you own the brand), and marketing (how to tell the world). Community and business development (your tax base) needs to include a number of partners – both private and public – to build a blueprint for the future.

DDI’s “Action Plans” are founded on each community’s unique attributes, addressing revitalization, signage (public and private), gateways, wayfinding, beautification, retail mix, attractions, visitor amenities, brand development, marketing materials, and outreach efforts. Much more than a strategic plan that simply defines broad-based goals and strategies, the DDI Plan is an Action Plan that provides specific to-do lists, complete with instructions, timelines, and funding possibilities leading to a community-wide implementation effort. Building a successful tourism industry or downtown begins with a good action plan.