The demand for technical assistance for informal housing in Brazil dates back to the 1970s. This resulted in 2008 in new social housing strategies. The future of free technical advisory services is directly related to social technologies.

The gap between poverty and wealth in Southern Africa is reflected in its built environment. Retention of traditional and vernacular architectures in both self-built and government-provided housing would help reduce inequality.

As more people move from rural to urban areas due to climate change, ensuring a sustainable future will require careful balancing of the macro challenges of managing urban change with the micro elements of community and enterprise.