Integrating Participatory Processes in Planning for Strategic Sustainable Development

Abstract: This thesis examines how dialogue-based methodologies can be integrated into a participatory planning process for strategic sustainable development. Evidence of the complex nature of the sustainability challenge is cited as necessitating tools and methodologies suited for dealing with complexity. The methodologies in this study were designed to use dialogue to address complex problems in which outcomes are unpredictable. Within the sustainability practitioner community, we identified a need for research on systematic guidance for pairing engagement processes with use of the Framework for Strategic Sustainable Development (FSSD). This research focuses on how a specific set of dialogue-based methodologies within the Art of Hosting network can be integrated with the FSSD to strengthen the linkage between content and process. As the culmination of our research, we have developed The Weave: Participatory Process Design Guide for Strategic Sustainable Development (www.theweave.info). It includes a Template for process design, suggestions and examples for use, and guiding principles. It is the first prototype of participatory process design guidance to be offered for pilot testing in the field of strategic sustainable development.