View of Downtown Detroit

What We Do and What We Value

Planning TES is a boutique consulting firm that specializes in utilizing human-centered approaches to drive tangible outcomes.

Our core belief is that vibrant communities and organizations honor and uplift the inherent value of people.

We empower our clients to create transformative impacts that drive positive change and foster community improvement.

Areas of expertise include:

Urban Planning

Community Development

Urban Design

Stakeholder Engagement

Project Management

Organizational Development

Strategic Planning

Capacity Building

Collaboration and Partnerships

Training and Workshops

 

Vision. Values. Purpose.

At Planning TES, we firmly believe that fostering positive change begins by aligning vision, values, and purpose with actionable steps.

We understand that achieving this requires adopting human-centered approaches that prioritize and promote meaningful connections to people, culture, and the environment.

By placing emphasis on these vital elements, we can create a foundation for sustainable and impactful transformations.

 
 
 

Urban Consulate

 

Reimaging the Civic Commons 2017

Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History - Green Museum Town Hall 20

Experience makes a difference.

Planning TES’ leaders have more than 30 years of combined experience in organizational leadership, community planning and economic development.

Our Approach to Community Engagement.

The SPACE Framework™

Sustainability

  • We dedicate time and attention to developing strategies that enable our clients to sustain outcomes over the long term. By emphasizing consistent practice, evaluation, and assessment, we empower our clients to maintain and build upon the positive results achieved.

People

  • Our role is to assist clients in cultivating trust and implementing systems approaches to drive positive actions, impacts, and outcomes within their organization and the communities they serve. By fostering trust and utilizing holistic approaches, we aim to create lasting change and meaningful progress.

  • We support organizations in leading through empowerment and enhancing their leadership capabilities. By strengthening leadership skills and promoting a culture of empowerment, we help organizations effectively navigate challenges and drive positive transformation.

Assets

  • Our commitment lies in supporting organizations that strive to create healthy environments with the well-being of everyone in mind. We believe in fostering inclusive spaces that prioritize the physical, mental, and emotional health of individuals within communities.

  • We work hand in hand with diverse community stakeholders to develop strategies that embrace the values of people, nature, and the vitality of communities. By engaging a wide range of perspectives and expertise, we aim to create sustainable solutions that benefit both people and the environment.

Conscience

  • As advisors, we guide leaders and organizations in implementing strategies that cultivate trust, transparency, accountability, and respect. By emphasizing these principles, our clients create a foundation for strong relationships and effective collaboration.

  • We empower our clients to integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion into their core business strategies. By recognizing that these values are not secondary but integral to their work, organizations can enhance performance and foster a culture of belonging.

  • Our approach encourages clients to demonstrate a genuine commitment to human dignity and thriving. By prioritizing the well-being and development of individuals, organizations can create a positive impact on their employees, stakeholders, and the broader community.

Equity

  • Our expertise lies in assisting clients in developing strategies that foster equity, both internally within the organization and externally in the communities they serve. We believe in creating fair and inclusive environments that address systemic barriers and promote equal opportunities for all.

  • We provide valuable insights to organizational leaders, enabling them to prioritize and dedicate the necessary time to address social equity concerns. By emphasizing the significance of social equity, we help organizations create a positive impact and contribute to a more just and inclusive society.

 
 

Our Team

Communities exist everywhere, be it in natural or built environments. It is crucial for organizations to recognize this fact and be mindful of the impacts they have on the communities around them. By committing to actions that foster collective well-being, organizations can create an environment where everyone can thrive together. It is essential to consider the needs and aspirations of these communities and work towards sustainable solutions that benefit all stakeholders.” - Planning TES