Digital disruption and planning - use of data and digital technology by professional planners, and perceptions of change to planning work

In an era of smart cities and digitalisation, there is a plethora of digital government and digital planning initiatives. Such rapid digitalisation is putting the planning profession under pressure to adapt to new digital technology. Our research investigates the use of data and technology, perceived and desired outcomes arising from digital disruption, and perceived barriers to the adoption of new technologies to in day to day planning work from the point of view of practicing planners across a wide range of professional roles. This paper reports the results of a mixed-methods study involving both a survey and workshop, with participants located primarily in the state of New South Wales, Australia. Our research finds that widespread digital disruption is anticipated by most participants and provides important evidence to assist planning organisations in preparing for this change.

Automated summary

In an era of smart cities and digitalization, there are numerous digital government and digital planning initiatives. This rapid digitalization is challenging the planning profession to adapt to new digital technology. The study investigated the use of data and technology, perceived outcomes from digital disruption, and barriers to adopting new technologies in day-to-day planning work, providing essential evidence for planning organizations to prepare for widespread digital disruption anticipated by most participants.