Contextualizing Planning Support (Systems): Co-designing to fit the dynamics of spatial strategy making

Rapid advancements in computer technologies have had a significant impact on the field of spatial planning. However, their added value during the strategic stages of this process remains limited. This thesis takes spatial strategy making under the loupe to examine the dynamics involved in these highly complex and communicative stages. Planning support in the form of serious games is designed together with planning actors as a means of facilitating inter-actor communication and of involving actors in the model building process. The main conclusion of the thesis is that skilled facilitation is needed that structures group processes involving more flexible support, with dedicated support given to individual work.