By David E. Christensen, AIA, LEED AP
1.
Listen 2. Envision
3. Draw Fast...and Listen Again!
The design workshop creates an environment of collaboration and seeks consensus to quickly develop an approved land or building development program that will help speed up the design process and gain faster approvals for proponents.
1. Listen
The key is to listen. People want to be heard and recognized. The feeling of having been heard is empowering at all levels of an organization and community. New information is always learned when you listen well. The importance of this step cannot be overstated.
2. Envision
Anything goes. Wild, creative ideas are quickly aired out, sketched and gauged against project restrictions and program needs. All issues are openly discussed to determine the best compromise.
3. Draw Fast
A picture is worth a thousand words. The designs come quickly and easily when you have a clear program and goal. Final design concepts should acknowledge all participant ideas, whether they were used or not. So, you need to listen again, and revise as necessary. The final workshop design concept most always receives near unanimous approval from participants.
