rich picture.talk

What is it? 

“rich picture.talk” is an analogue planning tool that uses hand-drawn pictures to visualise and discuss challenges, relationships, visions and solutions. 

Why is it useful? 

The tool enables groups to visually examine complex issues in a holistic way, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration. It supports the exploration of various topics and enables sustainable decision-making in contexts such as urban planning, community engagement or organisational development. Its participatory approach is ideal for a wide range of audiences.  

Who should use it? 

The ‘rich picture.talk’ can be used by facilitators such as local authorities, NGOs, urban planners, educators and community groups who want to address challenges or discuss visions together. It works with diverse participants of all ages and backgrounds, and even with multilingual groups through its visual approach.  

How to use it? 

The tool consists of two parts: the main workshop “rich picture.talk” and the optional “Participatory Rich Picture Presentation”. In the first part, participants work together in a two-hour session to create a Rich Picture representing the chosen theme. Facilitators prepare materials (flipcharts, markers, post-its), invite 2-8 participants (aged 7+), set up the space and lead structured discussions to raise questions, compare perspectives and explore solutions. The “rich picture.talk” can take place on site, when the transformation of a particular street or public space is discussed, but also indoors. The second part is to present the Rich Picture to a wider audience, such as passers-by or online participants, to gather further feedback. Facilitators and ideally one of the creators of the Rich Picture explain the situation while participants add comments on post-its. The facilitator gathers, records and summarises the feedback for future use. 

Example of good practices

On 13 June 2024, the ‘rich picture.talk’ tool was used at the Living Lab ‘Lambertgasse’ in Vienna’s 16th district to explore visions for the street. The open-air workshop aimed to highlight different perspectives and generate discussion. The resulting Rich Picture showed ideas for traffic calming, more seating, improved lighting, extra trees and bins, and flagged speeding vehicles as an issue. Emotions and suggestions for street transformation were also recorded. These outcomes were presented at a #residentialstreetlife event on 4 July 2025, where residents voted on their favourite proposals. The results will inform the district municipality’s next steps.

This tool was developed by Brigitte Vettori, spaceandplace.at

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