City-Insights Speaks at the Housing Forum

15/12/14

City-Insights Director Tim Gardom recently presented to the Housing Forum, hear from him below:

It was fascinating to have the opportunity to share ideas with decision makers in the social housing sector at the Housing Forum. The theme of ‘Investing in our Housing Assets’ ranged broadly from PV cell installation to housing stock audits to new funding structures for green retrofit.

The theme of ‘behaviour change’ (our subject) presented a very different kind of ‘investment’ opportunity and one which the delegates clearly identified with. Everyone saw the potential of delivering compelling,  location-based multimedia as a way to make the energy saving message relevant, personal and actionable. There was full agreement that technology alone is not going to deliver against the energy saving targets that the housing sector now faces. Communication must reflect the key qualities that bring about behaviour change, as identified by a range of organisations now trying to achieve it (Energy Saving Trust, Department of Energy and Climate Change etc).

• First: Provide information clearly, dynamically, originally, impartially
• Make acquiring that information empowering and interactive
• Ensure that what you say is relevant to their circumstances
• Second: Create a narrative that helped each person see themselves as part of a community with a common purpose.
• Stress the wider good as well as personal advantages
• Show them people like themselves.
• Make energy saving an aspiration not an obligation.

Using mobile technology to do this fits clearly with the innovation agenda that is also driving the social housing sector. There was a general feeling that, in this area, tenants are well ahead of the landlords!

Lively discussion and strongly held opinions made this a great afternoon.  Another great event from the Housing Forum powerhouse.  Great organisation.