COLLABORATIVE PLANNING-SUPPORT SYSTEM - AN APPROACH FOR DETERMINING EVALUATION CRITERIA

Extensive use of computers in water-resources planning makes the more efficient use of available information increasingly possible. It also promotes an iterative planning process by making analysis and evaluati on more convenient. The concept of collaborative planning is an idea t hat has had limited use because of the complexities that prevent peopl e with different backgrounds from communicating. A collaborative plann ing-support system (CPSS) integrates available computer technologies w ith modelling and analysis tools in a user-friendly environment, there by enhancing communication between the proponent for resource developm ent and affected or interested parties. CPSS does not provide solution s but empowers participants by identifying areas of common understandi ng, encouraging them to explore solutions and reach a consensus. Using the concept of 'grounded theory' from social sciences, the CPSS modul e described in this paper is a tool for developing evaluation criteria . Use of the concept is illustrated by an example from northern Manito ba which focuses on fish habitat issues relating to a hydropower devel opment project.