Getting local community members involved in university design projects is super important for many reasons.

First, community insights really matter. Local people know their area well. They understand what the community needs and what they like. By talking to them, students can create designs that actually help the community. This way, the projects are based on real needs, not just ideas from textbooks.

Second, collaboration builds ownership. When community members help with the design process, they feel proud of what they’ve created. This connection brings people closer together and makes it more likely that the project will be accepted and continued. When people have a hand in something, they’re more likely to support it and take care of it.

Third, different viewpoints boost creativity. Talking to a variety of people—like residents, business owners, and local officials—brings in many different ideas. This mix of thoughts can lead to exciting new designs that might not come from a group of just designers. By listening to everyone, the final designs can tackle complicated city problems better.

Lastly, future opportunities grow through conversations. Building relationships with local people can open doors for more teamwork after the first projects are done. This helps everyone learn more, work on future projects together, and gives students richer educational experiences.

In summary, involving local community members is not just a good idea—it’s really needed to create buildings and spaces that fit what the community wants. This ensures that the projects will have a lasting impact and truly matter to the people they serve.