Planning, Technology & Ubiqutous Computing questions from an interested laymen

[DiggityD1234]

Hi,

I am new here. I am a technologist and interaction designer. I devise, design and implement interactive experiences for users of websites, kiosks, and smart devices. I have long thought of a career change and am interested in Urban Planning as a new career.

My questions are geared more towards the communities perception of the future of urban planning. From my current position, I am tasked with using technology to better entice, appease and accommodate end users (or citizens). As we all know, technology is becoming more and more relevant and embedded within the milieu of everyday life - just think of the iPhone, senors, RFIDs, badges, etc. that enable human-to-human and human-to-computer communication. Architecture, retail, education, healthcare, etc. are all aspects of society that are embracing this and benefiting from modern technologies advantages. What does the future entail?

I wonder, is there a role for stewards of technology, design and urban planning on the horizon? Are there any graduate programs or specialists paying attention to urban planning and the responsive, sentinent city? I am sure to some this sounds far-fetched and futuristic, however, if current trends are accurate, we are approaching a world that is saturated with technology.

I would love to hear your thoughts, and ideas on this. Perhaps I missed a post regarding this, if so please let me know. IF you know of any programs (graduate) germain to this topic, that would be great as well.

Thanks so much,

s