developing a wetland centre, English - Wetland Link International

Please note that the above sequence is confined to the CEPA processes inherent indeveloping a wetland centre. The process will run concurrently with otherdevelopmental processes (like wetland management and creation) that are beyond thescope of this manual (see Figure 1, a flow-chart illustrating the CEPA process in theoverall process).Every development project is different, but here are a few tips:• Work up the project with the designers and contractors. Don’taccept a design solution that is ‘ready-made’ or not tailored to yourneeds.• Your wetland centre is unique and your staff probably know moreabout its specifics than the designers. Involve staff, volunteers andconsult with user groups. This will also encourage a wider‘ownership’ and pride in the development.• Don’t be seduced by flashy design and media that put style abovecontent. The project should be led by its objectives and content.• Make sure there are maintenance contracts for any IT andinteractive displays. Agree who will have responsibility forcleaning labels and other interpretation. There is no excuse forshoddy appearance and lots of exhibits that are out of order.• A development team will have different skills and attributes tothose needed to operate the centre. There is some overlap, and it isimportant for developers to consult operators about their eventualneeds building up to opening, at the opening launch, and postopening.19