The top-level domain (TLD) is the last part of the domain name. It is part of the Domain Name System (DNS) structure, and there are several kinds of TLDs including generic top-level domains (gTLD), country code top-level domains (ccTLD), and newer, niche categories like generalized, sponsored, and branded TLDs.
Coming specifically to the “.place” TLD, it is a generic top-level domain name that was introduced as part of the new batch of TLD by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), as reported by ICANN (source: ICANN.org). The .place domain is managed by Donuts Inc, an ICANN accredited domain name registrar and leading domain name services provider.
In terms of usage, the “.place” TLD allows individuals, organizations, or businesses to create web presences linked to specific locations or concepts of place. For example, a travel blogger might opt for a .place domain to emphasize their focus on various locations globally. A business organizations could similarly use a .place domain to highlight its location-specific services.
Given its open registration policies, anyone can register a .place domain. There are no restrictive policies in place like certain country-code TLDs. Registrations can be made through many domain services providers like GoDaddy, Namecheap, among others. It’s a democratized domain name with a broad potential audience.
Despite this flexibility, the use of .place domain name must be thoughtful. Website owners must consider SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) implications. Matt Cutts, a well-known Google software engineer, stated in 2012 that TLDs like “.place” will not necessarily improve a website’s search engine rankings (source: Matt Cutts’ blog). However, a well-chosen .place domain can certainly benefit your brand identification, customer recall and help articulate a location-focused value proposition effectively.
Another example of its use could be from the real estate industry. For instance, a real estate developer with a project called “Marine Bay” could register MarineBay.place to clearly signify the existence of a location and its related amenities. Local businesses, landmarks, regional events among others could similarly benefit.
Understanding that a TLD such as “.place” serves more than just a functional role, but also a strategic role within digital brand building and communication strategies is important.
Sources used for constructing this answer include:
1. ICANN (https://www.icann.org/)
2. GoDaddy (https://www.godaddy.com/)
3. Namecheap (https://www.namecheap.com/)
4. Blog by Matt Cutts (https://www.mattcutts.com/blog/google-ranking-tlds)
5. Donuts Inc. (https://donuts.domains)
