Urban planners have adopted technology to supplement traditional public engagement methods in the last two decades; yet, study on the influence of better technology tools, such as immersive virtual reality (IVR), is limited. In this article, we’ll look at how various technology tools have aided cities’ participatory design.
What do you mean by participatory planning?
Participatory planning is an urban planning concept that stresses public participation in the planning phase. The centralized and functionalist methodologies that characterized early urban planning efforts gave way to participatory planning. It has become a powerful concept in both conventional urban planning and worldwide community building.
Methods of participatory planning
Participatory planning does not have a single conceptual base or set of effective alternatives. It is, instead, a comprehensive framework that encompasses a wide range of ideas and methods for urban regeneration.
In a broad sense, participatory planning programs place a high value on integrating technological knowledge with community members’ priorities and expertise during the planning process. They also encourage the engagement of typically marginalized groups in the planning process, emphasizing coalition formation and collaborative community selection.
Use of digital instruments
Creative digital devices and technologies, such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR), may add to participatory temporal planning process steps by replicating interpersonal relationships and complicated surroundings.
The individuals can immediately engage in decision-making and policy formulation procedures through participatory planning. Planners can use digital technology to broaden and enrich traditional public engagement models; however, they must critically assess the authenticity and credibility of these process improvements.
What are VR and its use?
Virtual reality (VR) is a method for individuals to connect with computers and large amounts of data. The extent to which VR is engaging, involving the body and mind of consumers through sights, music, or touch, is a significant feature of the technology.
Enhanced understanding of participatory planning provides extra possibilities for feedback from stakeholders. Rises in the quantity, quality, and variability of public involvement; and the capacity to give almost an interactive environment by introducing additional sensory stimulation to VR are just a few of the advantages of various forms of VR technology during the planning phase, according to studies.
Integration of VR in the planning process
VR integration into the planning process can boost aggregate involvement amount, intensity, and variety. Whereas most planning efforts cater to middle or senior age groups, virtual reality appeals to game-obsessed newer generations.
It’s also worth noting that internet VR, in specific, can enhance participant entry by removing the constraints of classic face-to-face gatherings with a set location and time; this improved accessibility encourages participation from people with a wide range of perspectives, experiences, and competencies. Adding more sensory cues to VR may be possible to develop a nearly-real immersion experience that encourages genuine public interaction.
Final views
As technology has been rising, these are giving a new way for people to integrate technology into everyday life. Integrating VR technology in participatory planning has indeed brought more people together as a community to participate in planning a better town.