Community Planning: Methods
Microplanning workshop
- description
- more detail
Microplanning is a comprehensive action planning procedure for producing development plans for upgrading settlements. Originally designed for use in developing countries, it is based on regular intensive workshops which involve a minimum of preparation, materials and training.
The microplanning procedure involves 8 to 12 community representatives working closely with a small team of experts and facilitators for several days.
A sequence of activities (see second tab) is worked through to arrive at a development plan and work programme.
The process is structured by charts on large sheets of paper which are completed and kept as a record.
The workshops are repeated every year or so to monitor progress and plan the next stages.
The microplanning procedure involves 8 to 12 community representatives working closely with a small team of experts and facilitators for several days.
A sequence of activities (see second tab) is worked through to arrive at a development plan and work programme.
The process is structured by charts on large sheets of paper which are completed and kept as a record.
The workshops are repeated every year or so to monitor progress and plan the next stages.
Photocredits
Bangaladesh, 1994, Nabeel Hamdi
Bangaladesh, 1994, Nabeel Hamdi
![Structured group working](../images/p78.jpg)
Structured group working
Participants complete charts on large sheets of paper which are then displayed on the walls.
Tips
- Facilitators must have the confidence of all participants and should participate in a workshop to understand its dynamics before running one themselves.
- Hold workshops in the community rather than in government offices to make local people feel more in control.
- Do not treat the chart format as a straitjacket. If the one you planned does not seem to work, revise it as you go along.
Costs
- Costs are minimal apart from organisers' and participants' time.
People needed checklist
- Community representatives
Cross-section of local population. 8 12 people. - Logistics officer
Provides training materials. Government officer. - Projects officer
Responsible for implementing results. Local government officer. - Specialists
Technical experts (eg health, engineering, social development). As many as appropriate. - Team facilitator
Directs procedure. Practitioner or academic. - Workshop facilitators
Conduct small workshop groups (usually 3 needed). Selected from participants.
Thanks: Nabeel Hamdi