We don't build cities. 

We build the capability for cities to build themselves.

Cities do not become sustainable because of successful projects.

They become sustainable because they continuously learn, adapt, and lead their own transformation. CIS exists to make that possible.

People Before Projects

At CIS, we believe that sustainable city transformation begins with people, not projects. Projects may initiate change, but people create lasting transformation. Sustainable cities are built when local governments, communities, educational institutions, businesses, and citizens develop the capability to lead change together. This belief is the foundation of the CIS Co-Transformation Model.

Capability Co-Building

Unlike traditional consulting, CIS does not develop cities for local governments. We work with local governments to co-build the capability required to lead transformation from within. Capability is developed through real-world collaboration, experimentation, and implementation—not through reports or workshops alone. The model combines two essential elements: 

1) 5 Transformation Assets: Mindset, Method, Tools, Projects, and Network. 

2) 3 Transformation Phases, Strategic Partner, Transformation Designer, and Capability Builder. As local capability grows, leadership gradually shifts from CIS to the local government.

Local Ownership

The ultimate goal of capability co-building is local ownership. Rather than depending on external experts, local governments become increasingly confident in leading their own initiatives, making decisions, mobilizing stakeholders, and continuously improving their city. Transformation is no longer driven by CIS—it is owned by the city.

Self-Transforming City

A self-transforming city is a city that continuously learns, adapts, and innovates through its own people and institutions. It possesses the capability to respond to new challenges, create new opportunities, and sustain long-term transformation independently. This is the ultimate vision of the CIS Co-Transformation Model.