This guide is designed to help urban planners understand and apply essential web development skills to enhance their planning work. It focuses on practical web literacy rather than advanced GIS technologies, web application programming, or in-depth coding skills. Instead, it equips planners with the foundational knowledge needed to create, manage, and improve websites that support public engagement, data sharing, and project transparency.
This guideline is for you if you answer yes to any of the following:
I am interested in upskilling with technology.
I want to create a basic website on my own.
I want to be knowledgeable about web technology so I can collaborate effectively with web developers.
I am a student looking to develop additional skills for future employment.
If you answer yes to any of the following, this guideline is not for you. You can seek help from professional web developers, IT specialists, or tech-savvy planners. If your answers above conflict with the ones below, the ones below prevail.
I am not comfortable with technology stuff.
I have neither the time nor the interest to handle website-related tasks.
I believe web development is not part of a planner’s job and should be left to professionals.
Web technology has become an indispensable tool in modern urban planning. From interactive maps and community engagement platforms to project dashboards and public feedback portals, the web offers planners powerful ways to connect with stakeholders and disseminate critical information.
Understanding web development fundamentals allows planners to be more effective collaborators with web developers and ensure their digital platforms meet the needs of the communities they serve.
Developing web skills provides planners with several key advantages:
Enhanced Public Engagement – Websites and digital tools can foster greater participation in planning processes, making planning efforts more transparent and inclusive.
Improved Accessibility of Information – Well-structured websites ensure that zoning updates, policy changes, and project details are easily accessible to the public.
Better Communication with Web Developers – Even without coding expertise, planners who understand web fundamentals can more effectively articulate their needs and collaborate on web projects.
Cost Savings and Efficiency – Having the ability to manage basic website functions can reduce reliance on external consultants for minor updates and maintenance.
Urban planners can develop web skills through various approaches:
Hands-On Practice – Using no-code or low-code platforms to build simple project websites.
Collaboration with Web Professionals – Working closely with developers and IT teams to understand best practices and implementation strategies.
Leveraging Online Learning Resources – Exploring free and paid learning resources and web development courses tailored for non-technical users.
Applying Skills to Real-World Planning Projects – Incorporating web-based tools in public outreach, project reporting, and stakeholder engagement efforts.