Linking Knowledge to Action with Geodesign

This chapter presents the novel geodesign framework methodology, as proposed by Steinitz (A framework for geodesign. Changing geography by design. Esri, Redlands, 2012), and relevant enabling technology as viable way to innovate spatial planning. Through the detailed description and critical review of a case study on the future development scenarios of the Cagliari Metropolitan City (Italy), the authors aims at demonstrating the geodesign approach may contribute to address some of the most urgent issue of the contemporary planning, as required in Europe by the introduction of Strategic Environmental Assessment. To this end the paper shows how the geodesign framework may link planning knowledge to action, support collaboration for pluralist and democratic decision-making, and ensure that impact assessment is considered during the design. Possible limitations and issues for further research are also discussed aiming at suggesting improvements of the current practice.