Turn Your Park Into a Recognized National Demonstration Site
NDS sites are built on research backed design principles, recognized internationally, and supported by data that proves community impact.
Park N Play Design is proud to offer exclusive access to PlayCore’s National Demonstration Site program across Canada.
What Is a National Demonstration Site?
Recognition. Research. Real Impact.
National Demonstration Sites (NDS) are designated public spaces that implement evidence-based design best practices to improve community health, accessibility, and engagement. In partnership with PlayCore’s Center for Outreach, Research, and Education (CORE), Park N Play Design helps Canadian communities turn research into real results—backed by data, outcomes, and national recognition.
Why It Matters
Move Beyond the Minimum—Build Something Measurable
Being an NDS isn’t just about a plaque. It’s about building a space that’s:
- Grounded in peer-reviewed research
- Designed to be inclusive, active, and community-connected
- Part of a national network of excellence
- Supported by real usage data and health outcomes
NDS sites directly support the 7 Indicators of Community Vitality, helping your team advocate for funding, demonstrate ROI, and improve lives across physical, emotional, and social dimensions.
NDS Designation Categories
Choose Your Impact Area(s)
Every NDS designation follows a best-practice framework developed by leading researchers and institutions. You can align your project to one or more of the following categories:
Go Beyond Accessible—Build Truly Inclusive Playgrounds
Each designation has its own goals, design criteria, and programming options—so you can tailor your space to your community’s needs.
What You Get as an NDS Partner
NDS Sites Get More Than Recognition
Recognition
Project of Excellence award plaque
Listing on the National NDS Map
Access to digital seals, press templates, and media kits
Data & Outcomes
Initial Impact Report – demographic and health impact projections
Visitor Outcomes Report – user sentiment, behavior, and usage data
Secure online portal with live access to site data and reports
Marketing & Storytelling Support
Research QR signage with survey integration
Social post templates, press releases, and campaign support
Guidance for launching and promoting your NDS site
Why This Data Sets You Apart
Real Data. Real Decisions. Real Impact.
Every NDS project comes with exclusive access to customized, site-specific reports that show exactly who your space serves, how it’s being used, and what outcomes it's producing—aligned with the 7 Indicators of Community Vitality. This isn’t just a plaque on a wall—it’s actionable insight that turns public spaces into performance metrics.
What You Get:
Initial Impact Report (Before Opening)
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Estimates your site’s reach using demographic and GIS mapping
Benchmarks your region against provincial and national averages
Forecasts health and wellness savings based on expected use
Aligns your project with relevant health, equity, and engagement goals
Visitor Outcomes Report (After 50+ QR code scans)
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Measures who’s using the site, how often, and for how long
Shows physical activity levels, user satisfaction, and travel patterns
Identifies why people come—and what matters most to them
Captures real comments and testimonials to share with stakeholders
How Parks & Rec Managers Use the Data:
Justify Investments
Tell a Better Story to Stakeholders & Council Members
Secure Funding & Grants
Guide Programming & Activation
Make the Case for Maintenance or Expansion
How It Works
Becoming a National Demonstration Site Is Simple
Design
Work with a certified NDS partner (that’s us) to align your space to one or more designations.
Collaborate
We handle approvals, order the signage, and coordinate with CORE for designation.
Share & Showcase
Promote your new NDS, collect visitor feedback, and gain insights into your site’s community impact.
Backed by Evidence. Proven in Canada
Real Communities.
Real Results.
From Edmonton to Ontario, we’ve helped turn everyday spaces into nationally recognized destinations. Our NDS clients now use their reports to:
- Secure funding and grants
- Defend budgets
- Advocate for inclusive, accessible design
- Track health savings and usage trends over time
of visitors are satisfied with their experience
are active for 30+ minutes
plan to visit again
Explore Each Designation Type
Want to Learn More About the NDS Program?
Discover how becoming a National Demonstration Site can transform your community space into a nationally recognized, research-driven destination. Our brochure includes an overview of all five designation types, evidence-based best practices, and the benefits of joining the NDS network.
Let’s Put Your Community on the Map
Become a recognized leader in inclusive, active, and evidence-based public space design.
