“Building a Strategic Vision for the Future”
Activities
Principal Steven Ames is a consulting long-range planner and community facilitator known for his pioneering work in visioning methods and projects around the world. Ames frequently writes and speaks about his work; he published A Guide to Community Planning through the APA and contributed to Planning and Urban Design Standards. While he is best known for his community visioning work, Ames has also worked in a wide range of planning situations, including large cities, regional and state governments, federal agencies, corporations, courts, and universities.
Relevant Project(s)
- Oregon Visions Project: An visioning project carried out in Oregon communities in the 1990s. Ames developed the Oregon Model in this project– a four-step process for visioning
- Hillsboro 2020: Award-winning program in Oregon, recognized for its implementation strategies for community-based visioning.
- Flagstaff 2020: Visioning process in Arizona utilizing a public-private partnership.
- Toowoomba 2050: Current community planning project in Australia combining visioning, action planning, implementation, and citizen participation. The planning process and resulting 2050 plan specifically highlight youth involvement and local arts and make use of Appreciative Inquiry methods.
Relevant Methodologies
Steven Ames Planning utilizes a number of well-known methodologies for different aspects of planning. The Oregon Model sets the standard for visioning processes, with attention to citizen involvement, creation of alternatives, and implementation (see Processes). In long-range planning situations, Ames methods include trends analysis, scenario development and analysis, creation of values and visions statements, and action planning. In a community facilitation role, Ames conducts public surveys, holds meetings for working groups and the general public, organizes focus groups, and helps to educate communities on the process.
Region
International
More Information
http://www.stevenamesplanning.com
325 SE 14th Ave
Portland, OR 97214
503-235-3000 (phone)
503-235-6000 (fax)