My diverse work, academic, and practical experiences have allowed me to develop a broad-ranging set of skills. I apply a holistic and versatile approach to the projects I undertake owing to my experience living and working in four countries. The extent of the services I am able to offer are reflected through but not limited to the projects I have been involved in.
Remote Academy Learning Service Development
Partner: Open Architecture Collaborative Canada
Location: Toronto, Canada
Date: 2020-Present
I advise on the development of a virtual learning experience for architects, planners, and social designers based in Toronto and worldwide. I assist with strategy development, community outreach, survey design, and quantitative and qualitative data analysis.
Onboard Transit Passenger Survey
Client: CJI Research
Location: Durham-Raleigh, North Carolina and Westchester County, New York
Date: 2018-2019
Collaborated with multiple stakeholders to manage systemwide onboard transit surveys to collect market information from current passengers. In total, over 10,000 surveys were collected. I ensured quality data collection, trained and supervised contracted staff, and managed staff communications and conflicts. I also assisted with data analysis and report writing.
Village of Johnstown Online Comprehensive Plan
Client: Burton Planning Services
Location: Village of Johnstown, Ohio
Date: 2018
Conducted research, prepared maps, designed the plan document, and drafted goals, outcomes, and actions of the Plan elements and developed an Interactive Online Platform with features for public engagement. The Online Plan includes measurable actions that will help guide the Village and public agencies, as well as private organizations as they prepare detailed plans, programs, and ordinances for the Village over the next several years.
Digital Infrastructure Plan, City of Toronto
Employer: LURA Consulting
Location: Toronto, Canada
Date: 2019-2020
I assisted with the development and implementation of public engagement strategy for the Phase 1 consultations for the City of Toronto’s Digital Infrastructure Plan. I helped execute public events in locations across the city including the City Hall, assisted with the development of surveys and communication materials, analyzed data, and prepared summary reports.
Orange Township Land Use Comprehensive Plan
Client: Planning and Zoning, Orange Township, Ohio
Location: Orange Township, Ohio
Date: 2017
Adopted in November 2018, the Plan for Orange Township was completed by a team of eight graduate students as a part of the Graduate Studio work. I led the public engagement process, organized the open house events, facilitated round table discussions and presented the findings to the public. I also prepared graphics and drafted complete sections of the final report.
ArcGIS Mapping and Analysis
I create maps, perform spatial analysis, manage geographical data, and report and present results in a communicative and comprehensive way.
Writing, Design, and Journalism
As a freelance writer, I conduct research and prepare short articles about cities, communities, and urban initiatives for urbanism related news and views platforms. I prepared supplementary graphics and maps to communicate complex messages effectively. My recent articles:
How Community Engagement is key to fight Urban Sustainability Challenges
How public spaces can be redesigned to make ‘unlocking’ safe in Bengaluru
Social Media Communication
I create educative and informative place-based videos and blog posts for various social media platforms for community outreach and awareness. I convert written articles and travel journals to animated videos and interactive posts to increase your organizations social media reach.
Bengaluru Comics
Written and Created: Ruchi Agarwal
Location: Bengaluru, India
Date: 2019 – Present
Coming Soon!
A Bengaluru-based educational graphic novel designed to empower diverse youth to get engaged in community engagement and shape the future of their City.
+ Hiring an Artist/illustrator. Contact me to know more
COVID-19 Bengaluru App
Created and Managed: Ruchi Agarwal
Location: India
Date: 2020
The onset of COVID-19 pandemic brought tremendous change that demanded quick response. India locked down at once resulting in several unplanned consequences. To create awareness in the community about available resources, this multilingual web-based App provided various helpline numbers, charitable and volunteering opportunities, fun activities to do while socially isolating, and more. It was mentioned by The Times of India within the first week, and by the third week it had over 1,500 users and was reused and adapted by several COVID-19 efforts across the Country.
