American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What does ASPO stand for, and when was it founded?

1. American Society of Planning Operations, founded in 1934

2. American Society of Planning Officials, founded in 1934

3. Association of State Planning Organizations, founded in 1950

4. American Society for Planning, founded in 1920

The correct answer is: American Society of Planning Officials, founded in 1934

The correct answer is the American Society of Planning Officials (ASPO), which was founded in 1934. This organization played a pivotal role in the development and promotion of planning practices across the United States. It aimed to improve the quality of planning through education, advocacy, and the sharing of best practices among planners and officials involved in land use and community development. ASPO focused on addressing the challenges of urbanization and providing a platform for planners to collaborate and enhance their skills. The organization's historical significance is marked by its efforts to professionalize the planning field and to advocate for better planning policies throughout the mid-20th century. Understanding the context of other options clarifies why this answer stands out: the American Society of Planning Operations does not exist, and while the Association of State Planning Organizations (founded in 1950) is a legitimate organization, it specifically serves state-level planning entities rather than officials. The term "American Society for Planning" is also not associated with a recognized planning body, and its listed founding year does not match any major planning organization. This reinforces the credibility and relevance of the ASPO as the foundational body in the context given.