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How GIS Assists Urban Planners?

“How do urban planners use GIS Technology in their practice? In this article, Dr. Nur Aulia Rosni discusses its application in the profession
© Universiti Malaya

Introduction

Urban planning is a technical and political process of regulating and designing the uses of spaces. Urban planning provides solutions to urban issues and guides the orderly development of an area where people live, work, play and learn. However, urban planning is often carried out in a highly polarized public context in which decisions on land allocation and use are a source of conflict and tension.

Why is GIS important to urban planners?

GIS is an incredible technological tool that provides urban planners with enhanced data visibility. GIS tools aid in monitoring changes over time, assessing the feasibility of proposed projects, assessing the viability of location, modeling, and predicting the effects of trends on the environment.

GIS contributes to urban planning by allowing cities to understand their current needs and design better to meet them. GIS provides urban planners with a detailed view of land and infrastructure by processing geospatial data from satellite imaging, aerial photography, and remote sensors.

© Universiti Malaya
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Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in the Built Environment

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