California Botanic Garden

Claremont, CA — We conducted multiple studies to inform an Interpretive Master Plan (IMP) for a unique botanic garden dedicated to native California plants. Onsite visitor analysis and a market area study informed the development of ‘interpretive experiments,’ and later: onsite exit interviewing assessed the use and value of the new interpretation (collaborated with Judy Rand & Associates, interpretive planner).

Friends of the Public Garden

Boston, MA — We conducted a three-season User Analysis of the Boston Common (adjacent to the Boston Public Garden) to provide systematic data that will inform a master plan. The analysis focused on issues such as how the Common is being used, who are the audiences and where do they come from, what improvements do people think are needed, and how the perceptions of tourists differ from local residents.

Desert Botanical Garden

Phoenix, AZ — Our work supported the development of an IMLS-funded Interpretive Master Plan (IMP)—collaborating with interpretive planner Judy Rand of Rand & Associates. Starting with a Visitor Analysis to define audience segments and their interest in interpretation, we continued with an Orientation Experiment (a big change in the entry path to include interpretation) and an Interpretive-Architectural Experiment to help a design issue for the proposed Horticulture Center. Read our DBG case study on the Audience Analysis page >>>

Polly Hill Arboretum

Martha’s Vineyard, MA — Beginning with a one day workshop on being visitor-centered, we created an evaluation plan, Strategies for Engaging Visitors, which led to two studies of visitor experience.

Arnold Arboretum

Jamaica Plain, MA — This arboretum wanted to determine who uses their large, free, urban site, and how their patterns of use and interests could inform a master plan for interpretation and educational programs. Our Audience Analysis helped them find the answers.

Coastal Maine Botanical Garden

Boothbay, ME — We conducted multiple studies to assess prototype installations as proposed by CMBG’s Interpretive Master Plan. Among the studies were an experiment with a ‘theme column,’ assessing use and perceptions of a beekeeping exhibit, and two studies analyzing the orientation needs of arriving visitors.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Brooklyn, NY — Two different types of projects for this client included a Survey of Members to help make decisions about member programs and benefits, and two four-season Audience Analysis projects (conducted 5 years apart, before and after a change in admission price among other things) that described visitor characteristics, investigated their perceptions and interests, and defined audience segments.

Esplanade Association

Boston, MA — PPDR conducted a Park User Study of this prominent 3-mile stretch of linear parkland along the Charles River. We used exit interviews and behavioral mapping to determine who uses the park, what people do there, and their opinions about possible improvements, among other issues.