Planners + idealism + cool projects = planning corps

We’ve talked a lot about transformative technology in planning (a.k.a. #planningtech) on this blog. There’s a lot of potential for tech to re-shape how we plan - moving towards platforms and reuse, new models of collaboration, collective intelligence over silos.

One aspect that hasn’t got so much attention is planners themselves, and the needed transformation in how planners work - as Bomee wrote back in November 2008:

Planners should move away from the mode of “working for a client as an expert to deliver a solution to a problem” and toward a model in which:
* The planner acts as an enabler in a network of equally capable actors
* The planner builds frameworks instead of or in addition to plans
* The planner accepts a mandate to share data and methodology

Well, it’s time to test some of these ideas. Planners, form a Planning Corps.

The Planning Corps idea takes the planner-as-enabler concept and mixes in a bit of youthful idealism: NYC is home to many capable and generous planners (meant in the broadest sense, as always), equipped with diverse skills. Many ambitious organizations have great potential for positive change but lack resources to carry out their ideas. Not all planners are making full use of their skills in their day jobs (if they have one at all). What if planners could give some skilled time to make a meaningful contribution on specific projects?

Here’s a really fantastic starting point: next week, Transportation Alternatives holds a working session for planners and others to provide skills in support of TA’s projects. Check out Shin-Pei Tsai’s announcement and thoughts for the organizational perspective from the deputy director of TA.

If you’re interested in new ways of planning or just curious, be at the yet-to-be-announced venue on 3/24 at 6:30pm. RSVP here, and follow the latest on twitter - @planningcorps.

So - how does this tie back into open source planning? In the interests of space here, check out this mini-FAQ on Planning Corps.