Strategic infrastructure planning

Module topical coverage

• Policy and regulations
• Availability and use of data in infrastructure planning
• Infrastructure systems
• Infrastructure transition

Introduction

Before initiating any infrastructure project, practitioners must consider the strategic, upstream and early-stage issues that determine whether a project should be approved. Addressing these considerations helps decision-makers evaluate proposals, prioritise investments and ensure that projects align with broader policy objectives while delivering long-term value. This module focuses on these strategic and early decision-making stages of infrastructure development. It explores how to identify needs, assess options and support the policy and institutional foundations required for effective, strategic infrastructure planning.

Infrastructure is increasingly understood not as a collection of individual assets, but as a system of systems, a set of interconnected networks that operate across sectors and scales. Recognising these interdependencies enables more effective planning. The United Kingdom is widely recognised as a global leader in this area, as demonstrated by the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA), which plays a key role in strengthening infrastructure planning and delivery capability.

The Infrastructure Transitions Research Consortium (ITRC) has also played an important role in advancing systems-based approaches to infrastructure planning by equipping planners and policymakers to make better-informed decisions. This expertise has been adopted internationally by organisations such as the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), which has applied such approaches in contexts as in the case of Curaçao. Similarly, initiatives such as Enabling Better Infrastructure, led by the UK Institution of Civil Engineers, support governments in strengthening infrastructure governance, planning and decision-making.

Another significant development in infrastructure planning and delivery is the growing international adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM). BIM allows practitioners to digitally model infrastructure project components, share information more efficiently between stakeholders and optimise decision-making throughout the asset lifecycle. It supports more collaborative, transparent and efficient planning by integrating design, cost and sustainability considerations.

Despite these advances, relatively few countries have a single overarching national infrastructure policy. While many have regulatory frameworks governing construction or Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), sector-specific strategic frameworks are often lacking. Effective strategic infrastructure planning helps governments identify national priorities, reduce investment risks and ensure resources are directed towards projects that deliver the greatest public value. Achieving this requires clear objectives, strong governance arrangements, and an open, collaborative planning process.

Through this module, practitioners will develop an understanding of the concepts, tools and governance approaches that support effective strategic infrastructure planning and early project decision-making.