The CreativeCH project works on a number of topics which have been selected according to perceived challenges in communicating and valorising cultural heritage. This part of the toolkit presents the study results, building on insights of the CreativeCH workshops and additional study work.

Cultural and creative clusters, quarters and networks
Clusters of cultural and creative industries have been analysed by regional and urban studies, however the position of heritage organisations remained somewhat unclear. “Clustering” is a useful concept also in the context of cooperation in cultural heritage, but the relevant forms are others than for industrial clusters. They include local cultural quarters, cultural routes, and networks of cultural interest groups. More

Cultural heritage and ICT in the experience economy
The basic idea of memorable experiences as the currency of the “experience economy” seems to offer a good match with cultural heritage. How to enable or support such experiences with digital tools and content appears to be the difficult part. Therefore this section addresses several ways in which heritage organisations and other stakeholders can communicate experiential value more effectively. More

New skills and professionalization
Changing user demands, new digital media and other trends will necessitate some re-skilling in the heritage sector. Also the need to train students in required practical skills for digital heritage projects must be emphasized. In this regard, the EuroMACHS European Masters Programme and its project-based approach can be considered as a blueprint. More

Open Access to cultural heritage content
Since about 20 years the Open Access movement has been successful in making ever more content in the fields of cultural heritage, academic works and educational resources openly available. Cultural heritage content presents a special situation with regard to Open Access in that most content is in the Public Domain (i.e. the copyright has expired) and curated by publicly funded institutions. More

Citizens’ participation in cultural heritage
Cultural heritage is highly appreciated by most citizens, though participation in culture and heritage might be leveraged by a more open way of involving citizens online. Some institutional barriers to this have been identified. More

Creative cultural diversity
Cultural diversity has become a core topic in the field of cultural heritage on the international level as well as in local contexts. A “diversity advantage” is assumed for cities that nourish and support cultural diversity and creativity. But recognition and communication of the heritage of different communities involves specific challenges that must be addressed by cultural heritage institutions. More

Creative culture-based town development
Culture and heritage based development offers much potential for towns and regions. This section provides an overview of several options with a focus on creativity and quality, for example, revival of craftsmanship and traditional products, creative culture programmes, and cultural events that strengthen regional assets. More

Heritage and cultural tourism
The main topic of this chapter is favourable and critical aspects of cultural heritage tourism. Some social trends seem to work in favour of this tourism. However, critical effects are perceived at many heritage sites, which require reinforcing principles of sustainable tourism. More