Our Methodology
How we combine political intelligence with planning expertise
Our Approach
COALFACE combines traditional planning expertise with political intelligence and data analytics. Our methodology recognises that planning decisions emerge from the interaction of policy, politics, and local context.
Discovery & Intelligence Gathering
We begin by analyzing the political and planning landscape. This includes committee composition, voting patterns, local pressures, and governance structures.
- Planning committee analysis and member profiling
- Review of recent decisions and voting behaviour
- Identification of key officers and their roles
- Assessment of local political dynamics
- Understanding of relevant policy and guidance
Data Analysis & Insight Development
Our Council Scanner tool and analytical frameworks transform raw data into actionable intelligence about decision-making patterns.
- Quantitative analysis of committee decisions
- Member voting pattern identification
- Risk assessment and opportunity mapping
- Comparative analysis with similar cases
- Predictive modeling of likely outcomes
Strategy Development
We develop evidence-based strategies informed by political reality, not just planning policy.
- Tailored engagement and consultation approaches
- Stakeholder mapping and influence analysis
- Application positioning and messaging
- Risk mitigation and contingency planning
- Pre-application and member engagement strategies
Implementation & Support
We work alongside you to implement strategies, adapting as circumstances change and new intelligence emerges.
- Support through consultation and engagement
- Committee report and presentation preparation
- Real-time intelligence updates
- Member liaison and relationship management
- Post-decision review and learning
Our Principles
Three core principles guide all our work
Political Realism
Planning decisions are made by people, influenced by political dynamics and local pressures. We recognize this reality and work with it.
Data-Driven Insight
Our analysis is grounded in data and evidence, not assumption. We measure what matters and use intelligence to inform strategy.
Practical Experience
Our team has direct experience in planning committees, council officer roles, and political environments. We understand how it really works.