All sound strategic planning is also comprehensive in scope. The scope of such planning includes recognition of the context in which planning occurs and the systems that must be coordinated to achieve meaningful results.
Context. Managing context includes the ability to understand and coalesce disparate cultural vantage points, social and economic philosophies, individual and collective needs and desires, etc. Due to the lack of a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution, we must navigate through the uniqueness of our present state of affairs to better understand underlying issues, obstacles that need to be overcome, problems that need to be addressed, etc. in order to actualize thoughtful, calculated change towards a more functional future. Advanced communication platforms combined with fruitful discourse allow for deeper understanding of underlying issues, potential barriers, etc., at the individual and society level.
Systems. Systems include the built environment, economic system, and communication systems, as well as governance and social organizations, and societal roles and choice. Each of these systems plays a critical yet distinct role in the quest of a functional and sustainable future, and all must interact harmoniously. For this to happen, we need to become aware of key issues and innovative practices, encourage knowledge sharing and gain an understanding of the interconnectedness of the various systems and their relationships/impacts on one another. Contextual and other background details are provided below for the following systems: