Establish universal and contingent actions

Summary

After analyzing the effects these forces could have on the Philadelphia region in the future and identifying policies that would better position the region to respond to them, DVRPC identified a list of “universal actions” that have a positive effect in response to all of the potential forces. They also highlighted “contingent actions” specific to each force that will need to be weighed and prioritized as part of the larger planning process.

Universal actions are beneficial regardless of which forces come into play in the future. Universal workforce skill sets include science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), which can help to drive ideas and innovation—the major building blocks for economic growth. Even more important may be entrepreneurial skills, which can turn ideas and innovations into viable commercial products and services.