Behind the enigmatic term "the suitcase" lies a simple DIY (Do It Yourself) concept : an easily transportable, attractive and readable ensemble that enables the visualisation of a project, evolves with it, and facilitates the involvement of people (co-makers, stakeholders) in the project's development. All of this, in nothing more than a box with handles.

This tool manual is based on two different cases where the suitcase has been used. First, by Guido de Jong in the De Nieuwe Haven area development project, in Vlaardingen,The Netherlands. Second, by Sander van der Ham, urban psychologist at STIPO, in an area development project in Lombardijen, The Netherlands. 

To be more accurate, we should rather say the suitcaseS. As a matter of fact, there is not one ultimate suitcase. There is a potential infinity of suitcases to be built, unique for each project. It is a concept and blueprint of a suitcase, like a box that can be filled and designed according to the needs, capacity and goals of a particular project. It is a versatile tool that can be at the same time a branding showcase for your project,  or can be turned into a participatory mapping tool where communities can be involved in the design phase of the project.