SimLandScape, a sketching tool for collaborative spatial planning

Interactive spatial planning requires the development of planning support systems (PSSs) that are specifically tailored to support the exchange of ideas and visions during the planning process. This article presents SimLandScape, a client-server-based PSS designed to combine sketching and geographic information system (GIS) functionality. The PSS is implemented on an interactive digital surface, the MapTable, which makes it easy to use and retains the sketching experience. Using the MapTable, participants work together to explore the environment, exchange ideas about the direction of future development and sketch the first designs of a spatial plan. The close integration of the PSS with GIS allows spatial models to be plugged into the system. These can be used to calculate indicators that offer insights into how well a sketch plan meets predetermined criteria. SimLandScape was developed according to a socio-technical development strategy, which ensured close collaboration between software developers, spatial planners and designers. It was tested and evaluated in three case studies, which demonstrated its applicability, especially during the initial phases of an interactive spatial planning process.