Leadership Lessons from Human-Centered Infrastructure Design: Jon Kramer in Forbes

Designing for People First

In his latest article for Forbes Business Council titled “Leadership Lessons from Human-Centered Infrastructure Design,” OHM Advisors President Jon Kramer challenges a common assumption: projects don’t fall short because strategy is flawed. They fall short when the human experience is overlooked.

Kramer reflects on the transformation of a once under-used public space to a now-vibrant 13-acre community destination that serves as the “front porch” to Michigan Central. The success of this project has been defined by OHM’s ability to work with the City of Detroit to unify two beloved neighborhoods, create partnerships with community members and stakeholders and focus on incorporating elements of accessible design and local craftsmanship. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to rest, relax and enjoy the carefully-planned and landscaped surroundings of this historic site.

The takeaway is that when we design for lived experience, infrastructure works better, is embraced faster, and lasts longer—a message that’s closely aligned with how we approach our work at OHM Advisors: we advance communities by putting people first. 

Jon provides several ways for engineering, design, and planning leaders to apply human-centered design. And while the lens of this article is infrastructure design, the core principles of this mindset can be applied to any organization focused on resilience and long-term success. 

This article marks Jon’s fourth contribution to Forbes Business Council, following his earlier pieces on the impact of AI on the future of infrastructure, managing growth and career loyalty and leadership.

Read the full Forbes article here.

About OHM Advisors

OHM Advisors is the community advancement firm, delivering award-winning work across the architecture, engineering and planning spheres. Founded in 1962, we believe in the power of multidisciplinary teamwork to find ideas that aren’t just different—they are better. Recognized as an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm, our 800+ person team operates across multiple states throughout the U.S., partnering with leaders at all government levels, school districts, developers, universities and private companies to create great places for people.