Workshop briefing

In the workshop on July 17 2000 we split into two groups during which the groups 'invented' a town now and in year 2010 and reviewed what changes technology might bring. The discussion process was:

1 Groups were given an outline description of a town, which they then had to expand. The town in year 2000.

2 David Greenop then described some of the 'technology drivers' which might produce change in coming years. These were provided in summary, and later in a fuller document. The technology drivers for change summary and longer version

3 Groups had to extend/amend their description of the town to the year 2010, and present this future vision to the other group. Each group took the other's presentation, and considered the implications for the town, people in it, and professionals.Report of the group discussions.

At the end of the session, we provided the groups with two other papers: David Greenop's own vision of the town in 2010, and a note on relationships and networks.

Full briefing note and programme below.

Briefing notes given to groups

1 From the presentation and handouts, you have:

  • A description of the town in the year 2000, with some history
  • A summary of some of the technological drivers for change which we anticipate will be operating over the next few years

2 In your group, would you please consider how those drivers are likely to produce changes in the town, and from that construct a description of the town as it might appear in year 2010. In doing that, please outline:

  • Any obvious major changes you might see
  • Changes in the way that the town is governed and managed
  • Changes in work, leisure and home activities
  • Any changes in the pattern of social and other relationships you might hear about from residents

If you have difficulty in developing a scenario, we can offer you some further guidance — just ask.

3 When you have developed this year 2010 scenario, please give the town a name and make a brief presentation to the group to your right, and in turn listed to a presentation from the group on your left.

4 When you have heard the other group’s presentation, please review that and consider what will be the effects of the developing technology on:

  • The location of work and living space?
  • Location and type of leisure?
  • Transport?
  • Community involvement?
  • Local democracy?
  • Development processes?
  • The type and scale of development demand?
  • Existing development?
  • Time separation of activities?
  • Professional practice?
  • Professional education?
  • Client types?
  • Legislation?

Workshop programme

9.30 Welcome & Introductions David Fitzpatrick

9.45 Background and aims David Wilcox

10.00 Scenarios and drivers for change Dave Greenop

10.30 Groups customise scenarios

11.00 Groups present to each other in turn

11.15 Identify issues and actions 2 groups

12.00 Report back 2 representatives

12.20 Debrief and conclusions David Wilcox

12.50 Thanks and where next David Fitzpatrick