ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the emergent theory Transformative Incrementalism (TI) and its implications for planning practice. The research used Classic Grounded Theory methodology to bridge the academic/practitioner rift by developing theory that fits with and is relevant to the everyday work world of practitioners, especially those focused on planning for transformative change.
Planning is a unique practice in that it informs and is informed by every aspect of a community and as such, theory on any number of issues is relevant to planning. A robust theory in planning will therefore not only illuminate a diversity of patterns related to planning and planning outcomes (communications, urban form, governance, economics, social issues, environmental issues and others) but it should also provide a framework that informs the practitioner in how to practice more effectively and ethically. TI is a theory that bridges the divide between academics and practice, in that it offers a framework for designing, reviewing and documenting planning processes and outcomes, as well as providing a framework for planning action.
The process of planning, the creation and adoption of plans, the implementation of plans and the inevitable changes to plans is a contested space of many actors simultaneously working to achieve their social, political, environmental and economic interests. Their interests are rooted in land tenure, investment or employment interests, and socio-political relationships and goals. As such, the accumulation and use of power in influencing planning processes, plans and their implementation is a foundation for any theory of planning.
