Leverage what is being said about your place on social networks.
Although the starting point is the community itself, it is equally important to know what the rest of the world thinks of the place – to gain a perspective from beyond the local.
A good mapping of social networks helps us develop a vision beyond the community. And this is essential to understanding how to balance a pro-position for a place, be it a city or a planned community. Being aware of what people think of and are saying about the place will also help guide efforts to mitigate unwanted noise.
Even with face-to-face workshops, knowing what the community is saying online about itself and the place they live, work or study in is essential for cross-referencing research sources and understanding possible biases.
In addition to painting a picture of the current moment, immersion in the digital universe provides an overview of the future paths that places and behavioural groups are embarking on around the world. This helps to understand the trends and movements, which can strengthen the dynamic and adaptable character necessary for contemporary places.
Remember:
- Start with the past, understand today, but orient yourself to the future.
