Mind map "First we shape cities, then they shape us"

Mind map

For the module Research Through Design, I had to use the text I read for the home assignment ("First we shape cities and then they shape us"). Using this text, I created a mindmap to illustrate the structure of the main ideas of the text. Based on this mind map and text, I had to create a new model using a analytical method I encountered during the minor "Urban Regeneration". As an analytical method, I used the STEEP method (Sociological, Technical, Economical, Ecological, and Political). By linking the information from the mindmap to this analytical method, you can see the basis for the choices made in the text (First we shape cities and then they shape us) and the perspective from which these choices were made. I was able to establish new connections through this process, which I have illustrated in a model. 

If you would like to examine this model further, please click the link below.

First prototype

Because I chose a different topic, "How can the government use citizen participation in a design proces," and set aside the article "First we shape cities, then they shape us," I dove into the process that the municipality undergoes and the steps and phases involved. Throughout this process, I used color coding to indicate which aspect of the "STEEP" analysis method each part could be linked to. This makes it clear which aspect is addressed in each step. This approach has given me insight into the entire process and provided me with knowledge of the general steps I will be focusing on in this module.

Second prototype

During my second prototype, I focused on the feelings that citizens experience with the design or result. My concept examines the extent to which citizens are involved in the process and what results this produces. If citizens are not involved at all and are not listened to, there is a high chance that the design will not appeal to them, and they will not be satisfied with the work delivered by the municipality or the construction company. By involving citizens from the beginning of the process, they automatically have a better feeling about the approach and the design itself.

An existing analysis method I found on the internet also deals with involving citizens in the design process. I combined this method with my own process to create my second prototype.

In the PDF below, you can see the process of creating this process diagram, where you can see which two processes I combined to come up with this new process.

Third/final prototype

In my third and final prototype, I aimed to address several crucial aspects that were missing in my earlier design. After extensive research, I discovered a  process diagram online that clearly seperated the two sides of the process: the municipality or company's perspective and citizen participation. This diagram, being more detailed than my previous attempts, formed a solid foundation for my design.

However, I had initially overlooked what steps to take if citizens' ideas couldn't be fully implemented. It is vital to communicate openly with them, explaining the possibilities and being transparent about any budget constraints that may limit the scope of implementation. Not every idea can be executed exactly as proposed, but through ongoing conversations, mutually agreeable solutions can often be found. By integrating these considerations into the process, it gains a touch of transparency and responsiveness to citizen input.

Moreover, I also reflected on potential mistakes that may accure during the design phase or community meetings. It's possible for misunderstandings or promises made during these engagements to later prove unfeasible. In such cases, it is crucial to engage directly with the affected residents, discussing alternative solutions or providing clear explanations as to why certain commitments cannot be fulfilled. This approach ensures that residents are satisfied with the outcomes and understand the decision-making process.

Additionally, I briefly discussed the importance of selecting the right participants for these engagements. Ensuring a diverse representation from the area or neighborhood, this is essential to ensure that the perspectives and needs of all stakeholders are represented.

By incorporating these elements into the process, I aimed to create a framework that not only respects citizen input but also manages expectations effectively and builds trust within the community.