Web Applications for
Every Community
I build open-source digital tools that help planners and communities co-create with compassion.
My Intent
Democratize Technology
Open Source
Evolve Planning
Engagement
Empower Planners
Resources
To Those Who Care,
We develop policies, map land use, analyze data, project trends, and model traffic. Yet we often struggle to truly connect with the communities we serve.
The Planning Community bridges that gap, building open-source tools and providing web technology resources to help planners better connect with and serve their communities.
Let’s build something we are proud of.
Jing Zhang, FAICP
Founder, The Planning Community
Tools
Community Markers
A map-based input tool. Users drop pins with comments, allowing others to upvote or downvote the input. All data is mirrored in a filterable list view on a separate page for easy sorting and review.
Community Posts
A platform for residents to express ideas, raise concerns, and react to local development issues in real-time, for transparent, two-way conversations that build long-term trust and collaboration.
Real Questions Answered
Is this a big company?
No. It is a single member LLC. No overhead, no junior associates, or no "billable hour" quotas.
Is this an "AI" project?
No. AI projects often distance people from the process. Here, AI is a helper, so more energy on the high-touch work.
Why do you share the code?
I built my skills on the back of open-source knowledge and accessible tools. Because I didn’t have to pay a fortune to learn, it's my obligation to pay it forward.
How do you make money from open source?
I sustain this work by developing customized tools for specific projects, not by gatekeeping code and skills.
How to work with you?
My work is built on a risk-free performance-based partnership. I stand behind the tools I build; if the final product doesn't meet the specific objectives we set at the start, you don't owe me a dime. We begin with a candid conversation to ensure our visions align and that I am the right person to solve your problem.
Can a planner really build these tools alone?
Yes — but with learning curve. For beginners, it takes months of consistent effort. With AI, the hurdle is lower than ever, but it still requires "true learning" and a genuine interest in the craft.
Can "Open Source" really be as good as a $50k software suite?
In terms of flashy sales decks or corporate polish? Maybe not. In terms of responding to the changing need of a neighborhood? It’s better, because you own it, you understand it, and you can adapt it as your community evolves.
What do you mean "open source"?
It means sharing the source code behind the applications, as well as the logic that makes them work. This is not "off-the-shelf" software like QGIS or online tool like Canva. It is more like a specialized LEGO set. The blocks are all there, but you are the one who assembles them into the specific shape.
Other questions? Email Jing at jing@planning.community.