As I summarised in my introduction, there are many opportunities here at Lackan for potential designs. I am fortunate to have existing designs for a number of projects completed here on the farm, and I may use some of those, but there are plenty of new elements that I will be designing and they will likely form the bulk of those that I submit. I am broadly using the SADIM process as I begin to design my learning pathway, and so I’ll begin with surveying what opportunities are available to me here.
Project: Lackan Cottage Farm
Designs – Land based
- Overall farm design
- New forest garden development
- Horses on the farm
- Roundhouse
- Rainwater harvesting system
- Composting toilets
- Greywater reedbeds
- Woodland management
Non land based:
- Succession planning
- Forming a social enterprise
- Visitor experience
- Course design
Project 2: Classroom build
Designs
- Building design
- Green roof – build and planting
- Rocket Mass heater
Project 3: Permaculture education & tourism
Designs
- Accommodation spaces
- Visitor experience
- Activities & experiences
Project 4: Growing spaces
Designs
- Polytunnel designs
- Forest garden
- Outside growing spaces
- Waste management in the garden
So a total of 22 potential designs.
Time is also a resource that I must consider. I have existing business commitments, family time, and the running of a smallholding to factor into any decisions regarding project planning.
Finance – several of the possible designs are for projects that will be implemented during the course of my diploma over the next 2 years, and so the decision to undertake and include them will be in part determined by the funds that I have available as a co-client (with my wife Claire). I also have to factor in time spent not earning money into the overall cost implications of any project.
Seasonal factors – A number of the possible land based projects will be heavily influenced by the weather, but this has a greated impact on when they might happen than if they will happen.
External influences – Advice from third parties, external contractors, and the impact of any design on the community around me will all be considerations when deciding which designs to implement and/or include.
Analysis – considerations
- Prioritise into importance
- SWOT analysis
- Do I need external help? (zone 5)
- WHat can I do myself (zone 0-1)
- WHat can I afford?
- Do I have the physical resources, if not how can I get them. Financial implications?
- Who are the stakeholders – who has the power of veto?
