From complex values to situated strategies: an integrated decision-making approach

In an integrated decision-making approach, thinking through complex values implies the inclusion of a multi-dimensional perspective, taking into account tangible and intangible values, hard and soft values, objective and subjective values, use values, non-use values and intrinsic values, and their synergic and complementary relationships, overcoming different kinds of limits, and having plural “insights” in order to formulate a “situated strategy” addressing a “situated decision problem”. According to this perspective the role of evaluation within an integrated approach can be seen as an “opportunity” to elaborate strategies in spatial planning and design. The integrated perspective considers evaluation as an activity embedded in planning and design process and supporting many other activities in that process, each time playing a different role. Within an integrated perspective evaluation underpins the dialogue between knowledge and values in order to translate such dialogue into the planning of strategic objectives and actions; it enables the identification of relevant values and related meanings, the exploration of opportunities and the creation of alternatives; it measures possible impacts and effects while managing complex and multiple priority systems.