How do you align your development goals with the values of your region?

1 Understand your region

Before you start planning your development, you need to understand the context and characteristics of your region. What are the economic, environmental, cultural, and historical factors that influence the demand and supply of real estate? What are the challenges and opportunities that your region faces? What are the goals and priorities of the local government and stakeholders? By conducting a thorough market analysis and engaging with the community, you can identify the gaps and niches that your development can fill or create.

2 Define your vision

Once you have a clear picture of your region, you can define your vision for your development. What are the values and principles that guide your decision-making? What are the objectives and outcomes that you want to achieve? How do you measure your success and impact? Your vision should be aligned with your region's values and needs, as well as your own mission and brand. It should also be realistic, feasible, and flexible enough to adapt to changing circumstances.

3 Design your project

The next step is to design your project according to your vision and your region's context. This involves choosing the location, size, type, style, and features of your development, as well as the budget, timeline, and financing options. You should also consider the environmental, social, and economic implications of your design choices. How will your project affect the natural resources, climate, and biodiversity of your region? How will it enhance or disrupt the quality of life, diversity, and identity of the local community? How will it generate or distribute value, income, and opportunities for your region?

4 Communicate your story

A crucial part of aligning your development goals with your region's values is communicating your story to your target audience. This includes the potential buyers, tenants, investors, partners, regulators, and media that will be interested in or affected by your project. You need to craft a compelling narrative that showcases the benefits and features of your development, as well as the values and vision behind it. You also need to use the appropriate channels, formats, and strategies to reach and engage your audience effectively.

5 Collaborate with stakeholders

Another important aspect of aligning your development goals with your region's values is collaborating with the stakeholders that have a stake or interest in your project. These include the local government, community groups, NGOs, industry associations, suppliers, contractors, and consultants that can influence or support your development. You need to build trust and rapport with them, listen to their feedback and concerns, and involve them in the planning and implementation process. By doing so, you can leverage their expertise, resources, and networks, as well as avoid or resolve conflicts and issues.

6 Evaluate your impact

Finally, you need to evaluate the impact of your development on your region and your goals. This involves collecting and analyzing data and information on the performance and outcomes of your project, as well as the feedback and satisfaction of your audience and stakeholders. You should also compare your results with your expectations and benchmarks, and identify the strengths and weaknesses of your development. By doing so, you can learn from your experience, improve your practice, and demonstrate your accountability and transparency.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?