Public defence in Spatial Planning and Transportation Engineering, MA Kristi Grišakov

Learning from Futures: Utilising Scenario Thinking in Strategic Spatial Planning  

In a world marked by constant change and uncertainty, traditional approaches to strategic spatial planning face significant challenges. The primary aim of this research is to explore the untapped potential of 'scenario thinking' and its role in equipping planners to confront and adapt to uncertainty effectively.This research focuses on elucidating how scenario thinking can enhance the knowledge and skills essential in the domain of strategic spatial planning. It highlights the significance of fostering a meaningful dialogue between strategic spatial planning and scenario planning, with a specific emphasis on the ongoing debates regarding knowledge needs. The study draws insights from four illustrative cases, encompassing a total of six scenario projects, which serve as a foundational framework for the dissertation. 

The study identifies three fundamental capabilities vital for planners navigating the dynamic landscape of an uncertain future. These capabilities encompass the ability to critically assess and extract insights from scenario planning documents, the capability of creating exploratory scenario projects in the context of strategic spatial planning, with particular attention to re-framing, evidence and intuition, and the ability to create captivating scenario narratives that effectively communicate and interpret the knowledge accumulated during scenario projects. 

The findings from this study hold potential for a broad spectrum of applications within the domain of strategic spatial planning. Planners can utilize the identified capabilities to better navigate uncertainty, create more informed, forward-thinking strategies, and engage in reflective planning practices. This not only benefits long-term strategic planning but also empowers community-focused planning approaches
 

Opponent: Professor Emeritus John Forester, Cornell University, USA

Custos: Professor Raine Mäntysalo, Aalto University School of Engineering, Department of Built Environment

Contact information of the doctoral student: Kristi Grišakov, kristi.grisakov@aalto.fi, +3725183420

The public defence will be organised on campus (Otakaari 1, lecture hall E) and online. Zoom link: https://aalto.zoom.us/j/62512786104

The thesis is publicly displayed 10 days before the defence in the publication archive Aaltodoc of Aalto University. 

Electronic thesis