Essential Web Skills for Urban Planners

Why Notion?

Notion functions as a hybrid between a website builder, content management system, and collaborative workspace. It does not require coding experience and supports modular content design, making it accessible to staff without formal web development training.

Previously, TBRPC faced challenges with timely website updates due to limited editing permissions and reliance on centralized web administration. Notion resolves this by allowing multiple team members to contribute and edit content directly, improving workflow efficiency and content timeliness.

Key Benefits of Using Notion:

• No-Code Flexibility – Staff can independently build and update pages, dashboards, and databases without consultants or IT specialists.

• Real-Time Collaboration – Multiple team members can edit and manage content simultaneously, ensuring updates remain timely and coordinated.

• Responsive Design – Pages automatically adjust for viewing on mobile, tablet, or desktop, ensuring accessibility for users on any device.

• Cost-Effective and Scalable – Eliminates the need for external web development and allows the platform to expand organically as planning needs evolve.

• Open and Replicable – The RIC’s structure can be duplicated as a public template, enabling other agencies to create similar resource hubs without starting from scratch.

Featured Resource Areas

The RIC currently includes specialized hubs and databases designed to support key planning functions:

• Disaster Recovery Hub – Provides region-specific long-term recovery resources, guidance on funding, and documentation support to assist local governments and partners in post-disaster planning and implementation.

• Resilient Shorelines Data Repository – Hosts environmental and coastal resources to inform shoreline restoration and climate adaptation.

These early modules demonstrate how no-code platforms like Notion can be adapted to meet diverse planning needs while remaining accessible to both internal teams and public users. As a living resource, the RIC is designed to grow alongside TBRPC’s evolving initiatives and offers a replicable model for other agencies seeking flexible, low-cost digital infrastructure.

Looking ahead, TBRPC aims to expand the platform by integrating interactive plan documents, live data feeds, embedded maps, and real-time monitoring tools. At the same time, the Council is navigating challenges related to cybersecurity and IT restrictions—particularly those triggered by Notion’s AI-enabled features and third-party embeds. Balancing innovation with compliance remains a critical consideration in public-sector digital transformation.

Figure. Interface on mobile and desktop views.

The RIC is fully responsive, ensuring a consistent and accessible user experience across devices. Whether accessed on a phone, tablet, or desktop, the platform adjusts seamlessly—supporting real-time collaboration, mobile browsing, and on-the-go access to regional planning tools and resources.

Figure. Structure of linked databases and information hubs.

The RIC uses Notion’s linked database and sync features to streamline content management and eliminate duplication. Updates made in one place automatically appear across all linked pages—similar to a GitHub-style workflow—enabling staff to efficiently push changes sitewide and maintain consistency.