The Human Development Overlay District (HD-OD) concept is based on the idea that physical place and the people who live there are inextricably interrelated and must be planned for together. However, human capital providers, physical planners and communities often struggle to work together, especially communities undergoing rapid change because of major development projects, infrastructure investments, public policy and regulatory actions, or other pressures. Recent advances in information technology have the potential to address these needs, but only if integrated into a process of active engagement between all major constituencies. 

The Goal of Boston's HD-OD is to put the needs and desires of community residents at the center of plans for change and development.

The Boston HD-OD is a collaboration effort led by the Asian Community Development Corporation and the Metropolitan Area Planning Council.