Definition

Con•Cord - A friendly harmonious relationship; A state of agreement; Harmony

Engineering Perspective

The engineering method includes the quantification of isolated driving forces, material properties, and relations to predict system behaviors. Simplifying assumptions associated with a static form are needed to perform analyses for complex systems. The understanding offered by this process is used to quantify risk and design interventionist measures. The general goal of these measures is to modify system behavior to improve its predictability and optimize the service to society.

Ecological Perspective

We have learned of the dynamic and ‘chaotic’ character of natural systems. Experience has shown that a functional natural system is not static and must be able to adapt to variation in internal and external influences. We recognize that ecosystems are continually in the process of deconstruction and reconstruction in response to external and internal influences. A healthy ecosystem must be functional at a variety of temporal and spatial scales. It is this temporal and spatial variance that sustains ecological diversity.

Our Approach We combine the strengths of the engineering and ecological perspectives to develop solutions that balance the needs of today while maintaining a functional natural system that is sustainable.