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Building Cross-Department Solutions for Managing Trees in the Public Right of Way
The Challenge:
The municipality was facing significant challenges related to managing trees in the public right of way while ensuring adequate space for utilities, transportation, access, and ongoing maintenance. Because multiple departments had different responsibilities and priorities, the city needed a collaborative process for building shared understanding and identifying practical solutions.
The Collaborative Approach:
A series of human-centered design workshops brought together representatives from across city departments. Participants explored the issue from multiple perspectives, developed greater understanding of departmental needs and constraints, and worked collaboratively to prototype possible solutions.
The workshops created a structured environment for creative problem-solving, prioritization, and the development of clear actions to address the most pressing challenges.
The Results:
The workshops generated highly engaged and creative participation across departments. Participants developed deeper empathy and understanding of the competing needs associated with trees, utilities, transportation, and maintenance in the public right of way.
The process resulted in the identification of key priority areas and the development of actionable proposals to address shared challenges. It also strengthened cross-department relationships and created a stronger foundation for continued collaboration.
Client Testimonial:
“The process helped us move beyond individual departmental perspectives and see the challenge as a shared responsibility. The workshops created space for honest dialogue, creative thinking, and practical problem-solving. We left with clearer priorities, stronger relationships, and actionable ideas for moving forward.”

