Video Highlights: Our event on the use of artificial intelligence within the community engagement process

Back in late June, we held our London Festival of Architecture event on the use of artificial intelligence within the community engagement process. The video we have produced captures the event and the conversation that we had.

Oliver Deed opened the event, setting the stage for a series of contributions from our assembled panel. Kathy Jones, Co-Founder and Executive Chair of ECF, was first to present. She guided us on a journey through 30 years of evolution in the community engagement process, emphasising relationships, not technology, drive progress. Kathy delivered the quote of the night when she told the audience “technology is a tool and a tactic, not a strategy”.

Hamza Shaikh, digital artist and designer at Gensler, followed up with a compelling talk on the climate emergency and the role of AI addressing it. He highlighted how AI can break down barriers to engagement, improve educational access, and streamline adherence to diversity guidelines. Hamza stressed that despite the capabilities of AI, human empathy remains at the core of Gensler’s approach.

Stefan Webb from TPXimpact, then tackled the complexities of public engagement in the planning process. He discussed how AI can simplify jargon-heavy processes and make planning more transparent and inclusive. Stefan illustrated how AI could speed up data analysis and help citizens better understand and participate in shaping their communities.

The final presentation was by Tiernan Mines, CEO and Co-Founder of Hello Lamp Post. He showcased innovative uses of AI to enhance citizen participation, such as interactive AI chatbots. By making engagement more accessible, Hello Lamp Post is helping to create environments that truly reflect community needs and preferences.

The event wrapped up with a lively Q&A session, where panellists addressed questions about the impact AI will have on community engagement, the potential for job displacement, and the importance of human empathy in technological applications.

A big thank you to our hosts, Gensler, our insightful panellists, and everyone who attended. For more information about ECF’s work and how we can support your community engagement efforts, please contact us at info@engagecf.co.uk.