Digital Practice & Technology for Landscape

A look back at the LI’s latest conference, showcasing new perspectives on how digital technologies are shaping the future of the profession.

The Digital Practice & Technology for Landscape conference welcomed 200 attendees and 38 speakers to London this summer, to discuss and debate the ways in which digital technologies are shaping landscape practice.

There was a buzz of excitement around the sessions, which brought together leading practitioners from the landscape sector and wider built and natural environment industries. This was great to see as the purpose of the conference was to enable delegates to return home with new perspectives that will enhance their career and development.

We were delighted to welcome so many attendees and speakers to our first in-person conference since before the pandemic, engage with members and collaboratively shape the future of the profession.

Some of the key takeaways from the day were:

• Collaboration:

The full benefits of new advances will only be realised by working with each other, across industries and technologies.

• Planning and strategising:

Set your agenda for change and make decisions that position your organisation or team in the best place for success.

• Cultural change:

Embrace it and ensure your company is designed to be flexible and responsive.

• AI and jobs:

Although many jobs will become redefined, the technology will be unlikely to take away most jobs in the near future.

President Carolin Göhler FLI drew on her experience to reflect on the evolution of technology within landscape throughout her career –from tracing paper and ink pens to early computers and computer aided design (CAD), to the internet, advanced computing and AI: ‘There are both challenges and opportunities ahead’.

Tracy Whitfield is Technical & Research Manager at the Landscape Institute

Former Tomorrow’s World presenter, Kate Bellingham, delivered a powerful speech on the importance of diverse skillsets, the environment and embracing opportunities and shared her insights into STEM Capital and Equity in the workplace.

Past President of the Landscape Institute Jane Findlay FLI in conversation with President Carolin Göhler FLI and members.

CEO Rob Hughes delivers a closing address to the conference, highlighting the need for collaboration and the potential of digital technologies to help facilitate this.

Chair of the LI Digital Practice Group, Mike Shilton CMLI, moderates a discussion on AI in the landscape sector with Tamae Isomura CMLI and Harvey Kirchgaesser: ‘There will always be a need for human input’.

Exhibitor stands provide attendees with insights into the latest products and services, as well as demonstrations and in-depth discussion.

Networking drinks provide a great opportunity to reflect on the day and build relationships for the future.

The conference’s expert speakers brought the conversation and debate to life. Clockwise from top left: Tobermore, Michael Cowdy FLI (McGregor Coxall), Sam Bailey CMLI (LI Landscape and Carbon Steering Group) and Tracy Whitfield (LI Technical & Research Manager).

Many sessions sparked debate amongst the audience and with opportunities to ask questions and engage, knowledge is being progressed all the time.

Tracy Whitfield