Research
My research in human geography and tourism studies focuses on culture and tourism and is strongly intertwined with place development. The research has for many years addressed the growing interest in the commercialization of places and is strongly related to the commodification of places, to regional development, identity, cultural heritage and attractive living environments. Over the past decade, research has focused on digital developments in the hospitality industry, but also on sustainable place and community development, based on Geomedia studies. The impact of technology on place and the impact of place on technology has been and is central to research projects in the hospitality industry. In close cooperation with actors in the hospitality industry and ICT sector, a method for place-based development and innovation has been developed where stakeholder involvement has been a strong element. The basis of the method is to promote that development work takes place in a sustainable way with anchoring in each unique place. Central to this are actors who live, work and visit places in interaction with the place in time and space. Here, the dissemination of knowledge about the effects, opportunities and challenges of digitalization has been central along with prototype development and method development. Central concepts are also place anchoring, representation and power. Linked to site development and innovation, research is also conducted in relation to social sustainability. Research has also been conducted in areas such as cultural heritage and tourism, cultural and creative industries, border research, the role of sport in society, social economy, social entrepreneurship, etc.