Locational Models, Geographic Information and Planning Support Systems

Abstract

Geographic information systems (GIS) are becoming widespread in management and planning, affecting the very organization and operation of the planning process itself. In this paper we address the problems and potential of such systems, particularly in relation to the analytical, predictive, and prescriptive models on which strategic planning processes are based. Current GIS are not rooted in the sorts of functions which drive these processes and here we will identify the difficulties and possibilities for developing more appropriate GIS which are sensitive to the simulation, optimization, and design activities which define spatial planning. To this end we will describe the development of planning support systems (PSS) in which a wide array of data, information, and knowledge might be structured, and within which GIS develop ment must take place. We will identify the sorts of urban system and locational models which characterize strategic planning and whose data-demands might be accommodated using GIS. Our critique of GIS is positive and constructive in that we are concerned to embed GIS into planning processes in the most appropriate way. In conclusion we will identify a series of requirements which PSS must meet.

Business opportunities analysis using GIS: the retail distribution sector

“…In recent years, various associations between decision-making models and GIS packages have been made. Harris and Batty (1993) and Birkin et al (2002) explore the different possibilities that these technologies can offer to solve the problems of planning and locating retail outlets. Such associations between applications are known as loosely coupled, whereas solutions that include the functionality of decision-making programming within the actual GIS packages are known as strongly coupled.…”

“…Such associations between applications are known as loosely coupled, whereas solutions that include the functionality of decision-making programming within the actual GIS packages are known as strongly coupled. This strategy is based on the acceptance that there is no single software tool or technology that can meet the needs of planners and, therefore, they will have to adapt the current (and future) technologies to satisfy their needs (Harris and Batty 1993).…”

A Relational Indicatorset Model for urban land-use planning and management: Methodological approach and application in two case studies

“…Third, in order to follow up on and audit political actions in the course of time, indicators should not only describe a present condition, but also integrate the dynamics of the system (Allen, 2001;Harris and Batty, 2001). The question is then to know in which direction the system evolves: is it going toward or away from the desired progress?…”

Using On-Line Geographical Visualisation Tools to Improve Land Use Decision-Making with a Bottom-Up Community Participatory Approach

“…The term PSS was first used by Harris (1989); Harris and Batty (1993) to describe systems that combined a range of computer-based models and methods. In the 1990s pioneering work in developing and testing collaborative planning support systems was undertaken by Shiffer (1992Shiffer ( , 1995aShiffer ( , and 1995b.…”