APPLICATIONS OF GIS AND URBAN DATA ANALYTICS TO LAND USE

PLANNING
By
Rashidat Yusuf and Khadijat Abdulquadri
Department of Urban and Regional Planning
Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil
Being a paper presented at the Urban and Regional Planning Students Association of Nigeria
(URPSAN) National Conference on November 14-18, 2023 at ADUSTECH, Wudil Kano state
Abstract:

GIS and urban data analytics are increasingly being used in land use planning as they enhance
effectiveness and provide a spatial framework for the visualization, analysis, and interpretation of
complex geographical data, which would be cumbersome using conventional means. This paper
highlights the key role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and urban data analytics in
contemporary land use planning. This paper also examined the concepts, identified GIS and urban data
analytical tools used in land use planning, and identified challenges associated with GIS and urban data
analytics in land use planning. The integration of GIS and urban data analytics emerges as a
fundamental approach to creating well-structured and sustainable urban environments.
Keywords: GIS, Urban Data Analytics, Land Use Planning, Spatial Analysis, Zoning, Sustainability.

1.0 Introduction:
Strategic land use management is a cornerstone of urban development and sustainable growth
(Yaakup et al., 2005). Modern city dynamics require an advanced way of urban planning that
goes beyond conventional techniques. Land use planning has seen a revolution as a result of the
integration of several technologies, particularly Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and
Urban Data Analytics, two cutting-edge technologies (Santos et al., 2021). GIS and urban data
analytics empower planners by providing a spatial framework for the visualization, analysis, and
interpretation of complex geographical data and have proven to be valuable tools in land use
planning by offering unique datasets and identifying intricate patterns and trends in modern
urban settings (Yaakup et al., 2004).
Traditional methods of land use planning frequently prove insufficient for meeting the complex
and ever-changing requirements of contemporary urban environments (Juang et al., 2016). The
enormous volumes of demographic and geographic data required for well-informed decision-
making are difficult for conventional planning approaches to efficiently integrate and analyze
(Amoako-Attah, 2023). Therefore, the development of GIS and urban data analytics has
significantly changed land use and spatial planning approaches in recent times. In addition, the
need to accommodate growing populations while maintaining sustainable development presents
a big challenge since metropolitan areas change quickly, but this is made easy as GIS has the
capacity to assess the current land use situation while modeling possible future changes
associated with complex urban trends. Optimizing land use allocation, infrastructure planning,
and environmental impact assessment in urban environments is crucial; thus, there is a need for a
paradigm shift by incorporating cutting-edge technology such as urban data analytics and
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) (Ali, 2020). Using GIS and urban data analytics together
offers a way to maximize the potential of spatial intelligence and data-driven insights. Hence,
this paper explores the multifaceted applications of GIS and urban data analytics in land use
planning, revealing the transformative potential of these technologies in shaping the urban
landscapes of the future.

2.0 Concept of GIS

The Geographic Information System (GIS) is a computer-based system that uses modern
information technology to capture, store, retrieve, analyze, and display spatial data that describes
the environmental aspects and land qualities of a specific geographic region (Kirilenko 2022). It
integrates into a single system a variety of data types, including topography, satellite imaging,
geographic features, population demographics, and infrastructure. Ali (2020) asserts that the core
principles of GIS revolve around three main components:
1. Geography: GIS is fundamental to the Earth's surface features, characteristics, and
locations, focusing on spatial relationships and interactions among different elements
within a geographic context.
2. Information: GIS is an information system that organizes data to answer queries and
provide insights into various geographical phenomena. Attributes, such as land use and
population density, as well as geographical data, such as coordinates and forms, can be
used to represent this information.
3. System: GIS is a systematic approach involving software, hardware, data, procedures,
and personnel to manage, analyze, and visualize geographical information, providing a
platform for data collection and processing.
The core functionalities of GIS include:
 Data capture: acquiring and entering geographic data through the digitization of maps or
direct data collection using GPS or other surveying techniques.
 Data Storage: Storing geographic data in a structured database that allows for efficient
retrieval and management
 Data Analysis: Analyzing spatial data to derive patterns, relationships, and trends, aiding
in informed decision-making.
 Data Visualization: Representing the analyzed data in maps, graphs, charts, and other
visual forms for easy understanding and interpretation.
 Data Sharing: Sharing data and analysis results with stakeholders and the public through
various mediums
2.1 Urban Data Analytics
Urban data analytics is the process of gathering, organizing, analyzing, and interpreting vast
amounts of urban-related data (Sridevi Bonthu & Hima Bindu, 2018). It consists of a wide range
of statistical, mathematical, and programming tools that aid in analyzing raw data and extracting
valuable insights that inform decision-making processes in urban planning (Boeing et al., 2021).
It makes use of cutting-edge data analytics methods and tools to uncover significant trends and
insights that might improve the governance, management, and planning of cities. The primary
concepts and components of urban data analytics include:
1. Data collection: To build a comprehensive dataset that represents the urban environment,
diverse data must be collected from a variety of sources, including sensors, satellites,
social media, government records, surveys, and other sources.
2. Data integration: assembling and combining information from several sources to
produce a single, cohesive dataset Integration improves data quality and completeness,
enabling more comprehensive analysis.
3. Data Processing and Cleaning: This step involves preparing and cleaning the data to get
rid of errors, inconsistent information, and unnecessary details. By doing this, you can be
sure that the data being analyzed is accurate and trustworthy.
4. Data Analysis: The integrated data will be analyzed using statistical, machine learning,
and data mining approaches. To extract useful insights, this entails finding trends,
patterns, correlations, and anomalies.
1. Spatial Analysis: including geographical relationships and location-based data while
taking into account the spatial characteristics of the data. Geographical patterns and
distributions within urban regions can be better understood through the use of spatial
analysis.
2. Predictive modeling: developing models with the ability to predict patterns and trends in
the future using historical data Predictive modeling aids in making informed decisions for
future urban development.
3. Visualization and Interpretation: The process of visualizing and interpreting data
involves utilizing various tools like graphs, charts, and maps to make complicated urban
data easier to understand and interpret.
4. Developing Decision Support Systems (DSS): Applying the knowledge gained from
data analysis to design decision support systems that help stakeholders, legislators, and
urban planners make sound decisions about policy and development
5. Smart City Integration: Integrating urban data analytics into the concept of smart cities,
where data-driven insights are applied to maximize urban services, enhance public
participation, improve sustainability, and improve the standard of living globally.
Urban data analytics helps in making better decisions, maximizing the use of land in cities,
reducing costs, and improving efficiency. It aids in recognizing patterns and trends in urban
growth, mobility, and consumption while assessing the risks and opportunities of different
situations and evaluating the performance and efficiency of urban systems and services.
2.2 Integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Urban Data Analytics in
land use planning

The integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and urban data analytics has
revolutionized traditional methods of land use planning (Dushaj et al., 2009). GIS has long been
used in urban planning to visualize and analyze geographic data because of its capabilities for
spatial analysis. Furthermore, the introduction of urban data analytics, which makes use of large
datasets and sophisticated analytical methods, improves decision-making in the field of urban
planning.

GIS in Land Use Planning: GIS in land use planning helps in the spatial distribution of land
use, zoning, and determining future needs and developments. GIS also analyzes land use trends,
direction, and distribution and enhances rural and urban land use planning. Studies show that
GIS is essential to land use planning as it provides a spatial framework for analyzing
transportation systems, environmental factors, and land use trends (Trung et al., 2006). Studies
have also highlighted its effectiveness in zoning, infrastructure planning, and identifying suitable
areas for different urban functions.

Urban Data Analytics in Land Use Planning: Recent research has highlighted the significance
of urban data analytics in land use planning, which demonstrates its capacity to analyze
extensive urban data and extract insightful information (Yaakup, 2005; Santos et al., 2021). This
includes economic indicators, demographic patterns, and population trends. GIS is enhanced by
urban data analytics, which offers a data-driven framework for land use planning decision-
making.

The integration of GIS and urban data analytics is a focal point in contemporary research.
Studies emphasize that this integration offers a holistic approach, leveraging the strengths of both
technologies. It optimizes land use allocation, enhances infrastructure planning, and fosters
sustainable urban development by considering multiple dimensions, including spatial, social, and
environmental aspects (Dushaj et al., 2009). The integration of GIS and urban data analytics
significantly enhances the effectiveness of land use planning. GIS provides the spatial context
and visualization, while Urban Data Analytics offers in-depth analysis and data-driven insights.
Together, they enable more informed and strategic land use decisions, promoting sustainable
urban development, resilience, and improved quality of life for urban residents.

2.3 GIS and Urban Data Analytics Relationship with Land Use Planning

GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and urban data analytics are integral components of
modern land use planning, playing complementary and interconnected roles in enhancing the
efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability of urban development. They are applicable to land
use planning as follows:

1. Spatial Data Analysis: Planners can analyze spatial data about infrastructure,
environmental factors, land use, and demography using GIS. Planners may make well-
informed judgments about how to allocate land for different uses with the support of this
analysis, which offers crucial insights into the current status of land use.
 2. Zoning and Land Allocation: Based on geographical analysis and urban data, GIS
enables the demarcation of zoning restrictions and the optimal land allocation for various
uses (residential, commercial, and industrial). It helps to specify the limits and rules for
every zone.
3. Transportation Network Planning and Accessibility: GIS facilitates the planning of
transportation networks, route optimization, and accessibility analysis of important
amenities. It assists in determining the most suitable locations for transit stations, which
have an impact on patterns of urban expansion and land use.
4. Environmental Impact Assessment: The environmental impacts of proposed land use
changes are assessed with the support of both GIS and urban data analytics. While data
analytics can quantify these impacts, geographic information systems (GIS) provide a
spatial framework for assessing potential environmental implications.
5. Urban expansion modeling: GIS and data analytics work together to facilitate the
development of models that forecast urban expansion. Understanding the potential
growth of urban areas is essential for efficient land use planning and forecasting
infrastructure requirements.
6. Infrastructure Planning and Management: Using data from metropolitan areas and
land use patterns, GIS facilitates the best possible placement of roads, utilities, and other
infrastructure. Urban data analytics aid in the assessment of infrastructure needs and
utilization for effective urban development.
7. Community Engagement and Public Participation: GIS provides a platform for
community engagement by visualizing land use plans, making them accessible to the
public. Urban data analytics can analyze public feedback and opinions, assisting in
understanding community preferences and concerns regarding land use decisions. (Trung
et al., 2006).
8. Historical Preservation and Cultural Heritage Management: GIS plays a vital role in
mapping and preserving historical landmarks, and urban data analytics can analyze the
importance and impact of preserving cultural heritage when making land use decisions.

2.4 GIS and Urban Data Analytics Tools

GIS and Urban Data Analytics tools are essential in land use planning, as they help analyse and
interpret data related to urban areas. some examples of commonly used tools and software are:
1. ArcGIS: Esri's ArcGIS suite is widely used Geographic Information System (GIS)
software that enables urban planners to map, analyse, and visualize urban data for land
use planning.
2. QGIS: Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) is an open-source GIS software
that offers powerful mapping and data analysis capabilities for urban planning. It's a cost-
effective alternative to proprietary GIS software.
3. GRASS GIS: This is an open-source software used for geospatial data management,
analysis, and modelling, making it suitable for complex land use planning projects.
4. ENVI: ENVI is a specialized GIS tool used for remote sensing and image analysis. It
helps planners extract valuable information from satellite and aerial imagery for land use
planning.
5. GeoServer: This is an open-source server software for sharing and editing geospatial
data over the web. It's valuable for web-based land use planning applications
 6. R: R is a programming language and software environment for statistical computing and
graphics. It's used for data analysis, visualization, and modelling in urban planning.
7. Tableau: Tableau is a data visualization tool that can be used to create interactive and
informative dashboards for urban data analysis and presentation.
“https://www.tableau.com/academic/students”
8. Python: Python, with libraries like Pandas, NumPy, and Matplotlib, is often used for data
processing, analysis, and visualization in urban planning.
9. GeoDa: GeoDa is a free software used for spatial data analysis and exploration, helping
urban planners identify spatial patterns and relationships.
10. UrbanSim: UrbanSim is an open-source urban simulation model that helps urban
planners forecast land use changes and evaluate policy scenarios.
11. Space Syntax Analysis Software: Tools like DepthMap and Space Syntax Toolkit help
planners analyse the spatial configurations of urban areas and their impact on land use
and movement.
12. SAS Urban Data Analytics: SAS offers a suite of data analytics tools designed for urban
planning, which includes data integration, analysis, and visualization.
13. Geospatial Data Platforms: Platforms like CARTO and Mapbox provide tools for
creating interactive, web-based maps and visualizations, which are valuable for
presenting urban data to stakeholders.
These tools enable urban planners to process, analyse, and visualize a wide variety of urban data,
including demographic, economic, environmental, and transportation data, leading to informed
land use decisions and sustainable urban development. The choice of tools depends on the
specific needs of a project and the expertise of the planners and analysts involved.

2.5 Challenges associated with GIS and Urban Data Analytics to Land Use Planning

Integrating GIS (geographic information systems) and urban data analytics into land use
planning is not without challenges. Below are key problems associated with utilizing these
technologies in this context:

1. Data Quality and Integration: The formats, standards, and quality of urban data vary
across different sources. It can be challenging to integrate several data sources while
maintaining their quality. Analysis and planning decisions can be flawed as a result of
inconsistent or inaccurate data.
2. Cost of Implementation and Maintenance: The initial cost for hardware, software, and
trained personnel is substantial when implementing GIS and urban data analytics
systems. Ongoing expenditures also include maintenance and periodic updates. The
adoption of these technologies may be hampered by their high costs, particularly for
smaller municipalities or organizations with budget constraints.
3. Data Accessibility and Availability: It may be difficult to obtain current, reliable,
accurate, and relevant urban data, especially for certain indicators or in developing areas.
Additionally, different urban regions may have different data availability. Land use
planning initiatives may be less accurate and successful if the data is out-of-date or
incomplete.
4. Skills and Expertise Gap: Specialized expertise and skills are needed for utilizing GIS
and urban data analytics. Developing and training skilled staff might require a significant
 investment of time and resources. The potential benefits of these technologies can be
limited, and their efficient use is hampered by a lack of competence.
5. Technology Obsolescence: Rapid advancements in GIS and data analytics technologies
can lead to the obsolescence of existing systems, requiring regular updates and upgrades.
Outdated technology can hamper the efficiency and application of GIS and urban data
analytics in land use planning.

3.0 Conclusion

GIS and urban data analytics are increasingly being used in land use planning as they enhance
effectiveness and provide a spatial framework for the visualization, analysis, and interpretation
of complex geographical data, which would be cumbersome using conventional means. GIS and
urban data analytics applications help in making better decisions, maximizing the use of land,
reducing costs, and improving efficiency. They are increasingly becoming an important
component in the planning support system. As population in cities around the world continues to
grow, effective land use planning that can accommodate the growing demand is essential.
Hopefully, GIS and other urban data analytics will continue to play an important role in land use
planning and the development of aesthetically pleasing cities that can accommodate the
population's needs. However, the application of these tools in land use planning is not devoid of
challenges that require concerted efforts to overcome. Strategies such as stakeholder
collaboration and engagement, ensuring high-quality, accurate, and up-to-date data, investing in
education and training, integrating GIS and Urban Data Analytics with existing systems and
ensuring interoperability, promoting data sharing, and ensuring ethical data practices can help
overcome these obstacles and maximize the benefits of GIS and Urban Data Analytics in land
use planning.

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