Effective planning requires robust geospatial data, analytical tools, and transparent information systems.
- Geospatial data infrastructure: investment in base mapping, cadastral data, land-use surveys, and demographic information systems as a public good, accessible to all tiers of government and to the public.
- Use of digital tools in planning: geographic information systems (GIS) for spatial analysis and plan-making; building information modelling (BIM) for infrastructure planning; urban simulations for scenario testing; and digital public consultation platforms.
- Smart city approaches oriented to public service delivery and planning: data from mobility, energy, and environmental sensors informing adaptive planning and operational management – but with strong data governance, privacy protection, and equity safeguards.
- Open data and transparency: planning data – maps, planning permissions, development agreements, environmental assessments – published in accessible formats as a democratic accountability measure.
Examples
Singapore – Virtual Singapore (National Digital Twin)
Helsinki – 3D+ Open City Model
Amsterdam – GIS-Based Spatial Planning and Open Data Exchange