Co-Production and Collaborative Planning – The Difference

Abstract

The concept of collaborative planning has long been central in planning theory, undergoing critique, testing, and refinement. Yet, in contexts of deep conflict and difference, collaboration may be unrealistic, necessitating alternative approaches for inclusive planning. One such contender is the concept of co-production, which has developed through varied disciplinary traditions. Its origins can be traced both to Elinor Ostrom’s political economy research and to the practices of Slum Dwellers International (SDI) in upgrading informal settlements in India and Africa. These distinct genealogies reveal that co-production cannot simply be equated with collaborative planning. The paper explores the diverse roots of co-production and its practical application, particularly in informal settlement upgrading. Using discourse analysis of academic and web-based literature, the study highlights the nuanced differences between co-production and collaborative planning, arguing for a careful understanding of these concepts to avoid misinterpretation. Findings contribute to planning theory debates on inclusivity and demonstrate how approaches differ across socio-economic and institutional contexts.