FAQ Principles of Planning

Why are Plans created?

Planning addresses four essential questions:

• Why should action be taken?
• What outcomes can be defined?
• How can this be done?
• Which way should it be done? 

What is Planning?

“Planning means the scientific, aesthetic, and orderly disposition of land, resources, facilities and services with a view to securing the physical, economic and social efficiency, health and well-being of urban and rural communities.”

Canadian Institute of Planners, 2019

A more practical definition is:
“the attempt to integrate as much knowledge as we can as a basis for action that will bring about the future that we want”    Planning 101 (Incite)

What is in a Plan?

An effective plan has the following intrinsic elements:

• Purpose
• Targets
• Tasks
• Principles

Planning Process and Principles (Incite)

What are the stages for creating a Plan?

Planning is not simply a document or a building; it is the process of getting there.  It has the following steps:

• Decision
• Creation
• Implementation
• Monitoring

Planning Process and Principles (Incite)

Why does Planning matter?

Planning is an ancient practice that arose as soon as humans began using and organising the landscape for their needs.  It involved creating a sense of place for people so they could prosper.

Planning Process and Principles (Incite)