PREVIEW
SHARECourse Info
7 video lessons (111 Mins)
Published
2026
Trending
Preview Course
Browse Course Chapters
-
1.Introduction
1 min
-
2.Framing the First Five Years
35 mins
-
3.How Planning Actually Works (Big Picture)
23 mins
-
4.Land Use Toolbox: Core Tools and Processes
25 mins
-
5.The Human Side of Planning
13 mins
-
6.Survival Strategies for Early-Career Planners
6 mins
-
7.Wrap Up + Key Takeaways
5 mins
What You Will Learn
1. Describe key land use processes and tools used in local planning practice, including permits, development agreements and financing mechanisms such as TIF and tax abatement. 2. Apply effective communication techniques when interacting with the public, applicants and decision-makers in common planning scenarios. 3. Identify practical strategies for managing early-career responsibilities in planning departments and consulting firms, including project coordination and development review tasks. 4. Explain the full development review process from application submission through public decision-making, including the roles of staff, commissions and elected officials. 5. Interpret zoning codes, land use regulations and policy documents to support clear and defensible planning recommendations. 6. Prepare clear, concise and effective staff reports and presentations that communicate technical information to diverse audiences. 7. Demonstrate strategies for responding to common challenges in planning practice, including difficult public interactions, competing stakeholder interests and time-sensitive project demands. 8. Evaluate how early-career planners can contribute to successful project outcomes by balancing technical analysis, communication and professional judgment.Course Description
The first few years in planning can feel like drinking from a firehose. New planners are expected to understand zoning codes, answer public questions, process development applications and present to decision-makers — often with little formal or on-the-ground training.
This course provides an essential toolbox that explains how core planning processes actually work in practice, from permits and development review to public meetings and everyday counter interactions. It covers key topics new planners encounter on the job such as conditional use permits, development agreements, tax increment financing, tax abatement and development review processes. Participants will also explore how planners communicate with the public, respond to difficult questions and present technical information clearly to elected officials and community members.
Through real-world examples and practical guidance, participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how planning decisions move from application to approval — and how new planners can contribute confidently and effectively.
Learn these skills
- Career Development
- Communications & Media
- Land Use
- Zoning Codes
AICP CM
This course is approved for 2 AICP CM credits.
AIA CES
This course is 1.5 LU.CIP
This course is eligible for self-reported CIP unstructured CPL units.
