Leadership in Planning: How to Effectively Advance Great Urban Planning Initiatives from edX

This course teaches practicing and aspiring city planners – and those in related fields – how to take good ideas and make them happen. Since the failures of urban renewal in the US and elsewhere in the world, the planning profession has struggled with the perception that bold planning meant doing bad things to communities. This course challenges that concept by separating out the effective leadership skills planners need from the bad decisions many planners made in the mid-20th century.

In this course:

Young planners just starting out will learn how to position themselves for success
Mid-career professionals will gain the skills needed to get ahead in their organization and field
Planning Directors and other senior managers will learn how to work within complex organizations to both make great planning happen – and keep their jobs!

This course is not your typical course in city planning. Nor is it like the business management courses offered on leadership in the private sector. This course is specifically designed for planners in public and non-profit organizations, as well as planning practitioners in private consulting who work with public agencies.

How is this course different? Unlike many traditional planning courses, we look at where planning practice runs up against politics and management challenges. We will look at media relations as well as how to work within complex organizations to advance great plans. We’ll also look at models such as strategic planning and facilitative leadership that help get things done.

Finally, we offer a series of video case studies with experienced planners who have founded great planning organizations, implemented important plans, and advanced policy initiatives.

Advance your planning career as a leader in planning, with the help of this course!

What's inside

Learning objectives

How to move great planning ideas forward in a complex environment
The strategies and tactics of planning practice

What lessons to learn from the failures and successes of past planning efforts
When to push a good idea and when to hold back

How to move great planning ideas forward in a complex environment
The strategies and tactics of planning practice
What lessons to learn from the failures and successes of past planning efforts
When to push a good idea and when to hold back

Syllabus

The Challenge of Leading as a Professional Planner

The Arrogance of Urban Renewal, Reactions, and Complex Characters

Challenges of the Current Planning Paradigm

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Explores the challenges of leading as a professional planner, which is highly relevant for those looking to advance their careers in urban planning and related fields

Examines the failures and successes of past planning efforts, providing valuable lessons for current and future planning initiatives and helping planners avoid repeating past mistakes

Offers video case studies with experienced planners who have founded great planning organizations, implemented important plans, and advanced policy initiatives, providing real-world examples and insights

Focuses on strategic planning and facilitative leadership, which are essential skills for planners to effectively navigate complex organizations and advance their planning initiatives

Discusses managing and leading a planning office, which is particularly useful for mid-career professionals and senior managers seeking to improve their leadership skills

Requires learners to understand the history of urban renewal, which may require additional research for those unfamiliar with this topic

Reviews summary

Practical leadership skills for urban planners

According to learners, this course provides practical leadership skills specifically tailored for urban planning professionals. Students appreciate the focus on navigating political challenges, managing public opinion, and internal/external relations unique to the public and non-profit sectors. The video case studies and interviews with experienced planners are frequently highlighted as invaluable and inspiring. While many found the content immediately applicable to their work, a few suggest the course might be better suited for junior to mid-career professionals, potentially lacking depth for more senior staff. One reviewer found the content too general, though this view contrasts with the majority who found it highly practical.

Some find it practical, one finds it too general.

"Disappointed. Expected more concrete strategies... Felt too much like general management theory applied loosely to planning."

"Provided practical tools and strategies that I could apply immediately to my work."

"Some parts felt a bit high-level, could use more depth on specific negotiation tactics."

Real-world examples and inspiring interviews.

"The case studies were particularly helpful, showing real-world applications."

"The video interviews with experienced planners were inspiring and full of wisdom."

"Case studies were excellent. Highly recommend."

"The case studies were interesting..."

Addresses unique challenges in public sector.

"Provided invaluable insights into navigating the political landscape of urban planning."

"Appreciated the focus on non-profit/public sector."

"The focus on politics and media relations is spot on for the challenges planners face."

"Very relevant for anyone working in urban planning or related government roles."

Offers tools & strategies for immediate use.

"Provided practical tools and strategies that I could apply immediately to my work."

"Filled with practical advice on managing up and dealing with public opinion."

"The most practical planning course I've taken."

"I learned how to use practical tools and strategies that I could apply immediately to my work."

May be high-level for senior professionals.

"Okay course. Covered the basics but didn't offer much new for an experienced planner."

"Might be better for those earlier in their career."

"Good intro for junior planners, less so for senior staff."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Leadership in Planning: How to Effectively Advance Great Urban Planning Initiatives with these activities:

Review Strategic Planning Principles

Show steps

Solidify your understanding of strategic planning principles before delving into their application in urban planning.

Browse courses on Strategic Planning

Show steps

Review notes from previous courses on strategic planning.
Read articles or book chapters on strategic planning frameworks.
Summarize the key steps in a strategic planning process.

Review 'Start with Why' by Simon Sinek

Show steps

Learn how to inspire action by communicating the purpose behind your planning initiatives.

View Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire... on Amazon

Show steps

Obtain a copy of 'Start with Why'.
Read the book, focusing on the concept of 'the Golden Circle'.
Reflect on your own 'why' as a planner.
Consider how you can communicate your 'why' to inspire others.

Write a blog post on facilitative leadership

Show steps

Deepen your understanding of facilitative leadership by explaining its principles and benefits in a blog post.

Show steps

Research facilitative leadership in the context of urban planning.
Outline the key points you want to cover in your blog post.
Write a draft of your blog post.
Edit and revise your blog post for clarity and accuracy.
Publish your blog post on a platform like Medium or LinkedIn.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Volunteer with a local planning organization

Show steps

Gain practical experience and network with professionals by volunteering with a local planning organization.

Show steps

Identify local planning organizations in your area.
Contact the organizations to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Participate in volunteer activities, such as community outreach or data analysis.
Reflect on your experiences and how they relate to the course concepts.

Analyze a local planning initiative

Show steps

Apply the course concepts by analyzing a real-world planning initiative in your community.

Show steps

Identify a local planning initiative that interests you.
Research the initiative's goals, stakeholders, and implementation strategies.
Evaluate the initiative's effectiveness based on the course's leadership principles.
Write a report summarizing your findings and recommendations.

Review 'The Power Broker' by Robert Caro

Show steps

Understand the complexities of urban planning leadership through the lens of a historical figure.

View The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of... on Amazon

Show steps

Obtain a copy of 'The Power Broker'.
Read the book, focusing on Moses' leadership style and planning decisions.
Reflect on the ethical implications of Moses' actions.
Consider how Moses' strategies could be adapted (or avoided) in contemporary planning.

Create a presentation on a planning success story

Show steps

Solidify your understanding of effective planning leadership by presenting a case study of a successful planning initiative.

Show steps

Research a planning initiative that you consider a success story.
Identify the key factors that contributed to the initiative's success.
Create a presentation outlining the initiative's goals, strategies, and outcomes.
Present your findings to a group of peers or colleagues.

Career center

Learners who complete Leadership in Planning: How to Effectively Advance Great Urban Planning Initiatives will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

City Planner

A City Planner shapes the physical development of municipalities, working to create sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing urban environments. This often involves strategic thinking, skillful communication, and navigation of complex political landscapes. This course helps you understand the challenges of the current planning paradigm, drawing lessons from the successes and failures of past planning efforts. The course's focus on internal and external relations, along with making a compelling case for planning in the public arena, prepares city planners to lead effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for City Planner

Planning Consultant

A Planning Consultant advises public and private sector clients on various planning issues, offering expertise in areas like zoning, environmental regulations, and economic development. It requires a broad understanding of planning principles and the ability to communicate effectively. This course provides valuable insights into the strategies and tactics of planning practice, which helps planning consultants deliver effective solutions. Moreover, the focus on internal and external relations may help planning consultants navigate complex client relationships and achieve project success.

See salaries and explore the career path for Planning Consultant

Community Development Director

A Community Development Director leads initiatives to improve the quality of life in a specific area through housing, economic development, and social programs. It necessitates strong leadership and community engagement skills. The course may be useful as it teaches how to move great planning ideas forward in a complex environment. The principles of facilitative leadership and strategic planning, taught by this course, may help Community Development Directors effectively engage residents and implement successful programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Community Development Director

Urban Designer

An Urban Designer focuses on the artistic and functional design of cities and towns. This role requires a blend of creativity, technical knowledge, and an understanding of community needs. You will need to learn how to move great planning ideas forward in a complex environment. This course's emphasis on the arrogance of urban renewal, reactions, and complex characters may be useful in your career. Moreover, the case studies in facilitation and strategic planning help urban designers implement their visions effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Designer

Zoning Administrator

A Zoning Administrator interprets and enforces zoning regulations, ensuring that development projects comply with local codes. This position requires a deep understanding of zoning laws and conflict resolution skills. This course can help as it delves into the challenges of leading as a professional planner. By examining the lessons of past planning successes and failures, Zoning Administrators can better navigate complex projects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Zoning Administrator

Regional Planner

A Regional Planner develops and implements strategies for land use, transportation, and economic development across broader geographic areas. The position requires you to consider the interconnectedness of different communities and ecosystems. This course may be useful, as it provides insights into managing and leading a planning office, which can be crucial for coordinating regional initiatives. The focus on strategic planning and facilitative leadership may further help regional planners work effectively with diverse stakeholders and advance regional goals.

See salaries and explore the career path for Regional Planner

Government Relations Manager

A Government Relations Manager builds and maintains relationships with government officials to advocate for an organization's interests. This position requires a deep understanding of the political landscape and strong communication skills. This course is great preparation. You'll learn strategies and tactics of planning practice, from navigating tricky internal situations to influencing public opinion. It may also help you better manage up and keep planning issues in the forefront of an organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Government Relations Manager

Transportation Planner

A Transportation Planner focuses on designing and improving transportation systems, aiming for efficiency, sustainability, and accessibility. This requires an understanding of infrastructure, traffic patterns, and public transportation options. This course may be useful as it provides insights into the strategies and tactics of planning practice. Case studies in leading planners can provide valuable lessons for transportation planners striving to implement innovative and effective transportation solutions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Transportation Planner

Land Use Planner

A Land Use Planner is responsible for developing and implementing policies and regulations related to land development and zoning. It involves balancing competing interests and ensuring responsible growth. This course may be useful as it focuses on how to move great planning ideas forward in a complex environment. This course's emphasis on making a compelling case for planning in the public arena may help land use planners effectively advocate for their policies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Land Use Planner

Environmental Planner

An Environmental Planner assesses the environmental impacts of development projects and develops strategies to mitigate negative effects. This requires a strong understanding of environmental regulations and ecological principles. This course may be useful as it provides insights into the strategies and tactics of planning practice. The focus on making a compelling case for planning in the public arena can also empower environmental planners to advocate for sustainable development practices.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Planner

Public Works Director

A Public Works Director oversees the maintenance and improvement of a city's infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and water systems. This leadership role demands both technical expertise and the ability to manage complex projects. This course can help you navigate the complex environment in which planning decisions are made. By learning the strategies and tactics of planning practice, the Public Works Director can better position their department for success.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Works Director

Sustainability Coordinator

A Sustainability Coordinator develops and implements strategies to promote environmentally responsible practices within an organization or community. The role requires knowledge of sustainability principles and the ability to engage stakeholders in sustainable initiatives. This course can help as it focuses on how to move great planning ideas forward in a complex environment. The strategies and tactics of planning practice are useful for sustainability coordinators seeking to drive change and advance sustainability goals.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Coordinator

Urban Planning Professor

An Urban Planning Professor educates the next generation of planners through teaching, research, and mentorship. The position typically requires a doctorate and a deep understanding of planning theory and practice. This course provides valuable insights into the challenges of leading as a professional planner. The case studies in leading planners and the focus on strategic planning may help urban planning professors enrich their teaching and research.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planning Professor

Nonprofit Program Manager

A Nonprofit Program Manager oversees the development, implementation, and evaluation of programs that serve a community need. This requires strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills. This course may be useful as it teaches you how to move great planning ideas forward in a complex environment. The emphasis on facilitative leadership may assist Nonprofit Program Managers engage community members effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Program Manager

Real Estate Developer

A Real Estate Developer oversees the planning, financing, and construction of real estate projects. It may require a strong understanding of market trends, regulations, and financial principles. The course may be useful as it studies the failures and successes of past planning efforts. Moreover, the emphasis on internal and external relations may help real estate developers navigate complex negotiations and build strong relationships with stakeholders.

See salaries and explore the career path for Real Estate Developer

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Leadership in Planning: How to Effectively Advance Great Urban Planning Initiatives.

The Power Broker

Save

This biography of Robert Moses offers a deep dive into the complexities of urban planning leadership. It showcases how one individual can shape a city, both positively and negatively. Reading this book provides valuable context for understanding the challenges and ethical considerations involved in large-scale planning initiatives. It serves as a cautionary tale and a source of inspiration for aspiring planning leaders.

The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New...

Paperback

Robert Caro Collection 3 Books Set (The Power...

Paperback

$$$

[The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New...

Hardcover

$$$

Start with Why

Save

Explores the importance of purpose-driven leadership. It emphasizes the need for leaders to communicate their 'why' – their core beliefs and values – to inspire others. Reading this book can help planners develop a more compelling vision for their initiatives. It can also help them build stronger relationships with stakeholders by connecting with them on an emotional level. This book is more valuable as additional reading than as a current reference.

Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone...

Hardcover

Leadership in Planning

How to Effectively Advance Great Urban Planning Initiatives

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

Practical leadership skills for urban planners

Activities

Career center

Reading list

Share

Similar courses