Dirk-Jan F. Kamann

Modelling Networks: A Long Way to Go

This paper focuses on the way networks of actors can be visualised and modelled. After an introduction of the scientific streams involved in network analysis, various network concepts are discussed, combining the economic, geographic and social spatial dimensions with the time element. The ways of visualising, analysing and modelling networks are discussed after which a methodology is described, combining various techniques in a layered model: the Triple Plus methodology. This methodology should only be seen as just a first step in describing and analysing networks in various spatial dimensions.

A 'reverse network engineering' framework to develop tourism using a lifestyle approach

This paper uses the network approach in the design of policies for regional development focusing on tourism in rural and peripheral areas. The methodology applied - reverse network engineering - is a combination of a top-down and a bottom-up approach, The top-down approach starts with the demand side: from lifestyles and consumer profiles certain concepts are derived, For each concept the products and activities required to produce these concepts are listed, This step is initially performed at an aggregate level in economic space,The next step is the translation into geographical space, including the locational restrictions and preferences of activities, Next, for particular concepts is inventoried for an area those activities already there, those activities required hut not yet there, and those that are there hut not wanted because of their negative effects, Various concepts can he provided by the same area, creating economies of scope and scale, Telecommunication and transport facilities have to facilitate the correct materials management required for a proper functioning of the networks. In the last part of the methodology the bottom-up aspect is highlighted and incorporated, Pt starts from the actual situation in an area with the existing actors and activities and includes the immaterial relations and the cognitive aspects. In a final step, top-down and bottom-up results are matched ansi screened.