With the winter months upon us, it means that there is ample time to web browse and read various golf magazines, see Golf Channel, etc.  

Having read Arnold Palmer's article on another website about the state of the game, I found it particularly interesting that he sees the game as being in great shape. 

I'm not sure if I would completely agree with this assessment as it seems that there are less golfers now than there used to be say 15-20 years ago (most likely a reflection of declining demographics). Then I came across Rory's thoughts that golf needed to become a much "quicker" sport for all participants if it is going to recruit the newer generation to take the game up. 

So, imagining that we are the benevolent dictator of the golf world, what would you see as being some ways of growing the game?

I'm not sure if focusing on the "speed" of the game or slow play per se will speed up the game and make it more appealing to play.  It seems to me that a full size 18 hole round of golf (some 5200 - 6500 + yards) will inevitably take about 4.25 to 4.50 hours for a round of golf with a foursome -- particularly if all are walking.

I do find that smaller, 18 hole executive courses (ie: 3,000-4,000 yards) can be challenging but at the same time accommodate a much quicker round of golf.  My experience is that it is entirely possible to navigate these courses with a foursome in about 3 hours. 

Any thoughts out there on how to grow the game?  OR is Arnold correct about the state of the game and that things are fine?

Doug