American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Which type of planner serves a variety of groups with different goals and interests?

1. Advocacy Planner

2. Urban Planner

3. Community Planner

4. Environmental Planner

The correct answer is: Advocacy Planner

An advocacy planner is focused on representing the interests and goals of various community groups and stakeholders, particularly those who may be marginalized or underrepresented in traditional planning processes. This role involves understanding the different perspectives and needs of the community, facilitating dialogue among diverse interest groups, and ensuring that all voices are heard in the planning process. Advocacy planning emphasizes collaboration and inclusivity, aiming to balance competing interests while fostering equitable outcomes in planning decisions. This approach is particularly important in addressing issues such as housing, transportation, and public services, where different community segments may have conflicting objectives. By serving various groups, advocacy planners play a crucial role in shaping policies and plans that not only meet the diverse needs of the community but also enhance social justice and equitable development. In contrast, urban planners typically focus on the overall development and design of urban spaces, community planners concentrate on localized issues, and environmental planners prioritize ecological considerations, which may not inherently require balancing a wide array of differing group interests.