How Do We Make Planning Decisions?

Two Types of Planning Theory
Substantive Theory
Procedural Theory
Three Planning Approaches
The Rational Planning Model
Incrementalism
Mixed Scanning

The Rational Planning Model
1 - Problem Identification
2 - Generation of all alternative courses of action
3 - Evaluation of alternative courses of action
4 - Selection of the optimal course of action
5 - Implementation of the desired course of action
6 - Feedback and review

Disjointed Incrementalism
Suggests that planners and policymakers be strongly influenced by 
precedent and by experience
Mixed Scanning
1) A general scanning of the situation is conducted to determine 
which matters require more attention
2) Then conduct a study of areas identified as needing further study

Ecological Planning Model
1. Problem and/or Opportunity Identification
2. Goal Establishment
3. Regional Level Inventory and Analysis
4. Local Level Inventory and Analysis
5. Detailed Studies
6. Planning Concepts
7. Landscape Plan
8. Education and Citizen Involvement
9. Design Explorations
10. Plan and Design Implementation
11. Administration