[Sigia-l] unemployed?

[Chris Chandler]

Ashk, Adamya wrote:

> The issue of boundaries is one which exists in other
fields as well. Take
> for example, town planning and architecture. A history of
both disciplines
> will show that they intersect and practitioners of one
have frequently been
> from the other. In any case the definition of identity is
part of a
> necessary catharsis that any emerging field goes through,
especially
> something as eclectic as IA.

Since my degree is in Urban Planning, you've touched on an
issue near and dear to my heart, and made an excellent point
about the shifting boundaries between the two. I would like
to add that the intersection of the disciplines at a
professional level is in the person of a "urban designer."

But, you also bring to mind another point I've made
frequently on this list, although it's been a couple of
months so it's bears repeating: Architecture is a relativly
"strong" profession, i.e. there is a general consensus on
the skills and body of knowledge of architects, and this is
reflected in a enforceable licensing program. Planning is a
"weak" profession in the sense that relevant skills and
roles are not nearly so clearly agreed upon and you don't
need a license to work as a planner.

IMO, IA is, and will likely remain a "weak" profession.


-cc