4.1 Planning as an Iterative Process
It is still a widespread understanding in many countries and organizations that planning must be carried out in clearly defined steps which are
separate from each other and which must be followed in a strict order.
Experience has shown that such a linear planning process takes too much
time and often results in outdated plans the moment they are approved.
The alternative approach is an iterative process. Planning in form of iteration has proved to be successful in a vast number of technical cooperation
projects.
Iteration means the act of repeating a process usually with the aim of approaching a desired goal or target or result. Each repetition of the process
is also called iteration, and the results of one such iteration are used as the
starting point for the next iteration. With each iteration, the planning and
the plan(s) become more detailed and better adapted to the circumstances.
Planning and plan are always up-to-date. Within such a continuous planning cycle different elements of the planning process (such as data collection, analysis, negotiation) can be carried out simultaneously.
Iterative planning is based on a continuous learning process. It requires
the readiness of all those involved to keep asking and learning. Each activity and each interaction between those involved in the planning process
provides new information and experience. This improves the understanding of the situation and increases the knowledge about the measures carried out. In case the measures do not result in the intended outcomes and
impacts, iterative planning makes it possible to react swiftly and to make
the necessary changes or adjustments.
Land use planning is not a straight step-by-step procedure, but is iterative
and cyclical. Such a process allows learning from experience and quick
adaptation to changing circumstances. Approved objectives need to be
constantly rechecked and changed when they are no longer appropriate.
However, applying iterative planning does not mean that there is no need
for a time frame within which certain activities must be concluded. For
instance, if just before the approval of the final land use plan it is discovered that key actors have not been considered for participation, there are
two alternatives for action: a) The participants may decide to finalize the
plan first and adapt it later in a further planning process, then including