Beyond Buildings, Progressive Planning: Improving Collaboration Among Design and Community Development Professionals

Abstract

This research presents a basic understanding of the relationships among design and community development professionals. If their collaboration progresses, there might be a rise in vibrant and sustainable communities. Research participants included 22 professionals comprised of architects, engineers, planners, housing specialists, community/economic developers, and educators. Research questions focused on methods of community building, roles and levels of involvement, and ways to build and strengthen relationships critical to community development. The prevalent themes found in the interviews were related to roles and responsibilities, first impressions, trust, challenges, and moving forward. Conclusions are that all participants think collaboration among each other is extremely important, roles and responsibilities should be clearly defined and adopted prior to starting projects, and a lack in trust might suggest trust-building efforts. Implications of this research include increased and improved collaboration among design and community development professionals, vibrant and sustainable communities, and increase research in this topic.