Abstract

Citizen Planners and Geodesign: Inputs, Outcomes and Impacts
Track: Geodesign
Authors: Ben Niemann, Douglas Miskowiak

Geodesign tools have successfully engaged a variety of citizens as planners. These tools include
GIS dependent software which supports planning support systems such as What If?, Community Viz., and Place It! Hardware tools included lap tops and Smart Board touch sensitive tools. They provided citizens the ability to explore, display and visualize a variety of geo-spatial land related data sets representing both natural conditions such as the location of sensitive natural areas and cultural conditions such as land use and ownership. Touch sensitive tools associated with Smart Board technology also provided the unique opportunity to sketch and allocate uses and simulate and evaluate the impacts. Adoption of a variety of Smart Growth Plans in various rural and urban settings was facilitated. A diverse set of citizens with limited exposure were accommodated. Considerable enthusiasm and support for their products and plans emerged.