Planning Methodology Research Articles

Placemaking for inclusive public spaces in South African townships: a community-led approach

ABSTRACT Scholarly engagement on Southern Urban Theory offers an opportunity to analyze and deliberate case studies from cities in the South where planning practices provide useful evidence to support alternative approaches. The practice of placemaking presents a promising methodology for democratic planning in the form of a collaborative, process-orientated practice that reimagines public spaces through participatory design and community engagement. By making use of a case study example in South Africa (Cape Town), this paper positions placemaking within the discourse of southern urban theory and critically examines a community-led placemaking initiative and how participatory design processes effectively enhance local public spaces. The research challenged traditional ideologies of power and top-down planning approaches where change and action are initiated by authorities. It concluded that bottom-up initiatives to transform living environments not only capitalize on community buy-in but yield transformative processes possessing more longevity.

A Comprehensive and Innovative Environmental PSR Model for Biodiversity Priority Conservation Areas

Biodiversity is essential for ecosystem resilience and human well-being, yet it faces accelerating threats from habitat loss, climate change, and human activities. Conservation models often inadequately address the intertwined ecological and socio-economic drivers of biodiversity loss, leaving a gap between theoretical frameworks and real-world implementation. This study introduces an advanced Pressure-State-Response (PSR) model, developed through extensive fieldwork and leveraging Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing technologies. The model integrates ecological indicators with socio-economic factors, including stakeholder engagement, education, and local economic conditions, creating a dynamic, context-specific approach to conservation. By adopting a Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) framework, specifically the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), the enhanced PSR model prioritizes biodiversity hotspots based on ecological urgency and socio-economic resilience. It overcomes limitations of traditional models by incorporating customizable criteria and fostering equitable conservation strategies. The approach optimizes resource allocation, ensuring interventions target areas of highest biodiversity value while balancing local development needs. This study provides a replicable and adaptable methodology for conservation planning, addressing 21st-century challenges of biodiversity loss and socio-ecological complexity. By aligning conservation priorities with sustainable development goals, the model advances a transformative framework that bridges science, policy, and practice, offering global applicability for safeguarding biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Suitability analysis of ecological park site selection in small and medium-sized cities based on multi-source geographic big data

In the context of rapid urbanization, the scientific planning and development of ecological parks in small- to medium-sized cities are essential for enhancing the well-being of city dwellers and optimizing the ecological quality of urban environments. Traditional site suitability methods, however, are increasingly limited due to data resolution constraints and the challenges of balancing ecological protection, urban development, and socio-economic interests, which hardly provide insights for ecological park planning in small and medium-sized cities. This study addresses these limitations by employing a multi-source geographic big data framework, and applying it in Yongji City, Shanxi Province, by integrating remote sensing, Points of Interest, and land use data, a detailed 10m × 10m spatial grid was used for analysis. A comprehensive three-dimensional evaluation framework was developed, comprising ecological, infrastructural, and socio-economic factors, represented by 11 indicators. Points of Interest data have effectively assessed infrastructural configurations necessary for urban ecological parks, while remote sensing data provides critical insights into surface temperature and vegetation cover, which provide high-resolution indicators of environmental quality in urban and sub-urban regions. The site suitability analysis results reveal that hydrophilic landscapes, such as the Yellow River mudflats and Wuxing Lake wetlands, were identified as optimal areas for ecological park development due to their cooling effects and ecological benefits. Zone C, located southwest of Wuxing Lake, emerged as the ideal site due to its abundant natural assets and high accessibility, with a phased development strategy of other recommended sites based on their suitability. This research establishes a data-integrated framework that advances the methodology for urban ecological park planning in small- to medium-sized cities, providing both theoretical and practical insights that can inform similar projects in other urban contexts.

Dosimetric comparison of M6 CyberKnife plans optimized with Precision and RayStation 12A treatment planning systems.

Treatment planning for CyberKnife (CK) (Accuray, USA) can be performed with Precision (Accuray, USA) or RayStation (RS) (RaySearch Laboratories, Sweden) treatment planning systems (TPS). RaySearch recently released a new version of the CK module in RS 12A. The objective of the study was to compare plan quality between RS 12A and Precision. Fifty nine plans were optimized with both TPS and compared; 39 were for brain metastases and 20 were for vertebral metastases. To avoid bias in plan comparison, Precision plans were recomputed in RS with the dose algorithm and beam model of RS, and then compared to RS plans. The comparison was divided into 3 parts in order to reflect the potential of RS and the differences with Precision, in terms of technical aspects of delivery efficiency and dose distribution. We compared the dose to the target and to the organs at risk (OAR), the conformity index (CI), the gradient, as well as the number of monitor units (MU), and the number of beams and nodes. Finally, a global plan quality index (PQI) was calculated. RS plans showed an equivalent target coverage for brain metastases but worse for vertebrae. OAR sparing was improved in RS but with a lower CI compared to Precision. Using an appropriate planning methodology in RS, plans with comparable quality to Precision could be obtained, but at the cost of a longer optimization time. The PQI obtained with RS was better than Precision, except for some brain cases. RS is an adequate alternative for CK planning as it is possible to obtain plan quality comparable to Precision. However, the optimization time is longer compared to Precision and more attention must be paid to the choice of the initial conditions in terms of the number of beams and nodes.

INNOVATIVE APPROACHES TO TERRITORIAL PLANNING METHODOLOGY IN THE CONTEXT OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF REGIONS

This article is devoted to the implementation of innovative approaches to the methodology of territorial planning in the context of sustainable regional development. The work analyzes the features of territorial planning that affect the formation of sustainable development strategies. In the face of intensifying global challenges related to climate change, socio-economic disparity, and the need to preserve natural resources, it is critically important to develop and implement new methods of territorial planning. The main focus of the article is on the methodological aspects of integrating ecological, economic, and social criteria into spatial planning processes. The article considers tools that allow accounting for the specific development characteristics of particular territories, such as digital spatial data analysis models, geographic information systems, and advanced approaches to strategic planning based on scenario analysis. It is proposed to use integrative models that balance the interests of local communities, businesses, and the state. Special attention is given to the role of innovative technologies in ensuring transparency and public engagement in the planning process. Using digital platforms to collect and process data on natural resources, demographic indicators, and economic activity enables informed decision-making, contributing to more efficient resource utilization and improved quality of life. This, in turn, allows for a comprehensive consideration of community interests and promotes socio-economic stability. The study shows that innovative approaches to territorial planning not only enable sustainable development but also create prerequisites for the long-term economic growth of regions, enhancing their competitiveness and resilience to external threats. The methods proposed in the article are universal and can be adapted for use in various conditions, contributing to the formation of a new paradigm in territory development management. Thus, the article offers a comprehensive approach to territorial planning, facilitating the integration of different aspects of sustainable development. The application of these methods enables regions to adapt to contemporary challenges, preserve their natural and human resources, and create conditions for inclusive development.

Development of a conceptual model on I4.0 technologies’ influence on SCR

Purpose In a dynamic and uncertain business environment, it is necessary for companies to adapt to be capable of addressing the changing circumstances and ensure business continuity. Hence, companies are employing advanced Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies. This study aims to explore the role of advanced I4.0 technologies in facilitating companies’ development towards supply chain resilience (SCR).Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a structured approach of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) to identify 234 articles. Under PRISMA, we adopted a three-phase methodology of planning, conducting and reporting the review results. The data of these articles were synthesized using a Scopus database to investigate the relationship between I4.0 technologies and SCR.Findings The study’s findings map the technologies appropriate in different supply chain nodes and bridge the literature gap in the intersection of I4.0 technologies and SCR. The study results indicate the role of I4.0 technologies role in achieving resilience in key functions of an organization through an I4.0 technologies-enabled sourcing, manufacturing, distribution and return resilience (I-SMDRR) framework. The I-SMDRR framework also depicts the relationship being moderated by internal and external risk factors.Originality/value The study offers a unique framework by mapping sourcing, manufacturing, distribution and return resilience through I4.0 technologies. Additionally, the review delineates the theory-mapped research gaps helpful for future researchers. In summary, this systematic review of the literature identifies the components that lead to developing SCR.

Maintenance Priority: A Literature Review of Equipment Criticality Analysis in the Oil and Gas Industries

Abstract Criticality analysis is a fundamental tool in the oil and gas industry to ensure the efficiency and safety of equipment. This paper presents a comprehensive literature review on current methodologies for identifying safety critical equipment (SCE) and critical equipment (CE). The review begins by discussing the initial step of identifying SCE, followed by the identification of CE. Various methodologies are examined, ranging from simple, quick screening techniques to complex, quantitative analyses. Simple methodologies are often used for initial assessments, while complex methods are applied to equipment posing high risks that require detailed, quantitative calculations. The review highlights the strengths and limitations of each approach, providing a comparative analysis of their effectiveness in different scenarios. Finally, the paper suggests a structured methodology for developing maintenance tasks tailored specifically for SCE and CE, ensuring optimal maintenance strategies that enhance safety and operational efficiency. This review aims to guide practitioners in selecting appropriate methodologies for criticality analysis and maintenance planning in the oil and gas sector.

Securing opportunities for activities and choices by local communities - A planning methodology for local public transport services as social common capital-

This study proposes a methodology for planning local public transport services as social common capital necessary for people to secure a “healthy and cultural life.” The methodology systematizes the process of setting the level of achievement of the “size of activity opportunities,” which indicates the degree of “healthy and cultural life,” as a consensus among the local community, and socially choosing a planning alternative for public transport services to realize it from the perspective of mutual assistance. Although the individual methods that constitute the methodology are concrete “examples” for understanding the methodology as a whole, the empirical analysis conducted through a web-based survey showed that the social choice process worked as expected and confirmed the practicality of the methodology.

The Role of Data Analytics in Digital Transformation: A Study of how Firms Leverage Data for Insights

Big data helps organisations undergo a digital transition. The majority of businesses rely on big data to enhance the dependability, velocity, calibre, and effectiveness of their corporate operations. Large volumes of information are known to be collected, stored, and maintained by big data, which gives businesses a competitive edge. The main research gap addressed by previous writing studies is the lack of a thorough analysis on the use of massive amounts of data for computerised transformation. This is addressed by looking at the key benefits, opportunities, and challenges that big data poses to businesses as they cautiously alter their structure. This research advances knowledge about big data in general by employing a case study technique involving Google and a comprehensive survey of the literature. The study's findings demonstrate how companies work together to leverage the potential of big data analytics, especially for profitability, market expansion, decision-making, and information synthesis. Furthermore, this study recommends the use of business intelligence strategies and long-term planning methodologies to guarantee data protection.

Performance Evaluation of Various Path Planning Methods for Robotics and Computational Geometry

INTRODUCTION: In integrating Spiral Coverage into Cellular Decomposition, which combines structured grid-based techniques with flexible, quick spiral traversal, time efficiency is increased.OBJECTIVES: In the field of robotics and computational geometry, the study proposes a comparative exploration of two prominent path planning methodologies—Boustrophedon Cellular Decomposition and the innovative Spiral Coverage. Boustrophedon coverage has limitations in time efficiency due to its back-and-forth motion pattern, which can lead to lengthier coverage periods, especially in congested areas. Nevertheless, it is useful in some situations. It is critical to address these time-related issues to make Boustrophedon algorithms more useful in practical settings. METHODS: The research centres on achieving comprehensive cell coverage, addressing the complexities arising from confined spaces and intricate geometries. While conventional methods emphasise route optimization between points, the coverage path planning approach seeks optimal paths that maximize coverage and minimize associated costs. This study delves into the theory, practical implementation, and application of Spiral Coverage integrated with established cellular decomposition techniques.RESULTS: Through comparative analysis, it illustrates the advantages of spiral coverage over boustrophedon coverage in diverse robotics and computational applications. The research highlights Spiral Coverage's superiority in terms of path optimization, computational efficiency, and adaptability, proposing a novel perspective into cell decomposition. The methodology integrates the Spiral Coverage concept, transcending traditional techniques reliant on grids or Voronoi diagrams. Rigorous evaluation validates its potential to enhance path planning, exemplifying a substantial advancement in robotics and computational geometry.CONCLUSION: Our findings show that spiral coverage is on an average 45% more efficient than conventional Boustrophedon coverage. This paper set the basis for the future work on how different algorithms can traverse different shapes more efficiently.

RESEARCH MODEL CANVAS: APPLICATION IN ACADEMIC RESEARCH PLANNING

This article deals with academic research planning and its structural nuances, as a fundamental part of the development of scientific research, in achieving its objectives and obtaining valid and reliable results. It inquires about its conventional form of construction and presentation through the textual document and aims to propose a new instrument for the planning of academic research. It discusses Design Thinking, Business Model Generation and Project Model Canvas, as project planning and management methodologies applied in other areas of knowledge that have as a common characteristic their conciseness, etymological basis and visual presentation format. It is structured on the methodology of the 4 (four) poles: epistemological, theoretical, morphological and technical. Finally, it presents the proposal of the Research Model Canvas as an innovative instrument for the planning of academic research, developed in a robust but concise way, based on the quadripolar methodology, in a single sheet or screen document called academic research canvas and its history of application in postgraduate disciplines and in a Research Group of the Federal University of Ceará.

Value Stacking of a Customer-Sited BESS for Distribution Grid Support: A Utility Case

This paper proposes a value stacking strategy for a utility-owned, customer-sited battery energy storage system for distribution grid support. The proposed strategy includes three steps: application identification, performance evaluation, and battery system planning. Outage mitigation, non-wires-alternative solution, and voltage support are identified as the primary, secondary, and tertiary applications for the proposed storage system. Reliability performance and economic benefit are calculated and compared for each application in five locations in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Planning results including placement, sizing and scheduling of the battery system are presented with real utility experience and constraints. This work contributes to providing a general and ready-to-use planning methodology for distribution system planners to deploy battery storage systems within service territories, strengthen system reliability performance, and achieve sustainability goals.

Forecasting Daily Radiotherapy Patient Volumes in a Tertiary Hospital Using Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) Models.

The purpose is to predict the volume of patients treated daily with radiotherapy using the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model. In this retrospective study, data from the billing records detailing daily radiotherapy treatment sessions were extracted from the Hospital Information System and analyzed. The study included all patients treated from January 2004 to December 2022. The analysis was divided into two parts: First, the data were summarized using descriptive statistics. Second, time series forecasting with the implementation of an ARIMA model for estimating patient volumes. For the ARIMA modeling process, the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) was used for classical model optimization. The Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) was used for evaluating between different models. Residual analysis was performed in each model using the Ljung-Box test, Jarque-Bera test, and heteroskedasticity test to identify autocorrelation, normal distribution, and variances that could undermine the reliability of the model. A total of 895,808 radiotherapy sessions were included in the study. The median number of radiotherapy sessions per day was 181 (150, 205). A clear transition to more modern radiotherapy equipment, particularly the Truebeam accelerator, was observed, indicating a growing dependency on advanced techniques such as volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT), stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). The best ARIMA model predicted an increase in demand, projecting an average daily patient volume of 279.40 by 2030. The study highlights the need for advanced forecasting methodologies in healthcare resource planning and emphasizes the importance of considering environmental and external factors for effective and accurate resource allocation strategies.

Land Cover Dynamics of Al-Hammar Marsh: Restoration Plan Methodology Assessment

Land Cover Dynamics of Al-Hammar Marsh: Restoration Plan Methodology Assessment

Urban Renovation from Precarious to Sustainable Districts: Study Case of Mvog-Ada in Yaounde

This article explores the possibility of transforming precarious neighbourhoods, commonly known as slums, into good-living and environmentally- friendly places by rethinking their layout. It examines the state of the study case and highlights the relationships between the road system, parcels of land and other components of the urban fabric, with the aim of resolving the problems caused by the poor occupation of urban space and the lack of architectural knowledges and basic infrastructure necessary for people's lives in Cameroon. This research addresses the problems of anarchic urbanisation, urban densification and unhealthy living conditions, it proposes concrete solutions for decongesting the area, strategically redeveloping the space and ensuring the sustainable development of the site, while incorporating a biomimetic and circular approach. To achieve this goal, it was important to put in place a renovation strategy that is both up-to-date and adapted to the local context. With this in mind, this work presents a comprehensive and innovative master plan designed to solve the problems of development, bad urban traffic and degradation of the area through the use of an appropriate methodology of sustainable urban planning. Finally, the concept of sustainable district is presented as a pillar of the development of precarious districts and as an opportunity of growth for the development of their country.

Anticipating prosperity: a systemic analysis of long-term economic trajectories

PurposeThis study introduces an innovative approach to long-term economic forecasting by integrating anticipatory governance (AG) and causal layered analysis methodologies. Focussing on emerging economies, with Vietnam as a case study, we explore potential economic trajectories to 2050.Design/methodology/approachThe research employs a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative economic projections with qualitative scenario building and analysis.FindingsOur findings reveal four distinct future scenarios, ranging from low growth to transformative change. The preferred scenario, characterized by adaptive change, projects a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita of $30,684 by 2050, with significant reductions in agricultural labour and improvements in human development indicators.Originality/valueThis study contributes to theoretical and practical domains by demonstrating the value of integrated foresight methodologies in economic planning. It offers policymakers a comprehensive framework for navigating complex, long-term economic challenges and opportunities. This research underscores the importance of adaptive governance and systemic thinking in achieving sustainable, inclusive economic growth in an increasingly uncertain global environment.

A dosimetric and robustness analysis of proton arc therapy with early energy layer and spot assignment for lung cancer versus conventional intensity modulated proton therapy.

Intensity Modulated Proton Therapy (IMPT) faces challenges in lung cancer treatment, like maintaining plan robustness for moving tumors against setup, range errors, and interplay effects. Proton Arc Therapy (PAT) is an alternative to maintain target coverage, potentially improving organ at risk (OAR) sparing, reducing beam delivery time (BDT), and enhancing patient experience. We aim to perform a systematic plan comparison study between IMPT and energy layer (EL) and spot assignment algorithm - Proton Arc Therapy (ELSA-PAT) to assess its potential for lung cancer treatment. A total of 14 Lung ELSA-PAT plans were compared retrospectively with IMPT plans. 4D worst-case minimax robust optimization was performed, including 84 scenarios (3%, 3 mm). Dosimetry assessment included target (clinical tumor volume [CTV]) and important OARs, on nominal and worst-case scenarios. Most relevant normal tissue complication probabilities (NTCP), target coverage robustness against interplay effect, and BDT were evaluated. CTV D95% and D98% showed no significant difference in comparison. PAT demonstrated better conformality by 66% (p = 0.00012) but delivered a higher heart mean dose (HMD, 23%). There was a 2% increase in NTCP 2-year mortality risk with PAT. Total BDT was comparable among techniques. IMPT was more robust than PAT against interplay effect, considering both D1% (1.0 ± 0.8 Gy vs 1.1 ± 1.4 Gy) and D98% bandwidths (0.9 ± 0.9 Gy vs 1.1 ± 1.3 Gy). Both techniques provide a similar level of dose coverage to the target volume. Although PAT improved dose conformality, higher HMD translated into increased heart toxicity, presumably due to chosen planning methodology and OAR proximity to target. Increased ELs and spots raised PAT BDT, although it could improve daily treatment workflow.

Стратегические перспективы развития отрасли цветных металлов: проблемы и задачи отечественных производителей

The non-ferrous metallurgy industry in Russia is undergoing profound changes due to geopolitical shifts, the transition to green energy, and the need to develop processing industries. Non-ferrous metals, as strategically important products, can play a decisive role in achieving the global goals of the Russian economy related to economic security, the development of domestic markets, the reconstruction of high-tech industries, the modernization of stably functioning industries, and the improvement of the quality of life for the population. The purpose of this research is to study the trends and risks affecting non-ferrous metal producers and to assess the opportunities and challenges for developing both external and domestic markets, ultimately aiming to ensure sustainable demand for the products of mining companies and metal producers. The primary research methods used include general scientific approaches such as comparative analysis, synthesis, and decomposition. This paper reviews the current state of Russia's non-ferrous metallurgy sector and explores its development prospects, with a specific focus on Norilsk Nickel, a key player operating in the Arctic. The main results of the study include an assessment of the current global market for non-ferrous metals, their role in the energy transition, and the formation of a low-carbon economy. The study also analyzes and summarizes the challenges facing domestic non-ferrous metallurgy and suggests potential directions for its development in the current economic context. A critical analysis of the Strategy for the Development of the Metallurgical Industry of the Russian Federation for the Period up to 2030 reveals that several important aspects and issues are not adequately addressed in the document. For example, it lacks a strategic planning methodology and fails to consider the specific characteristics and potential of the Arctic’s non-ferrous mineral resource base. The practical significance of this study lies in clarifying the prospects for utilizing non-ferrous metals to support the revitalization of high-tech industries in the national economy.

A High-Efficiency Two-Layer Path Planning Method for UAVs in Vast Airspace

In response to the challenges associated with the inefficiency and poor quality of 3D path planning for Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) operating in vast airspace, a novel two-layer path planning method is proposed based on a divide-and-conquer methodology. This method segregates the solution process into two distinct stages: heading planning and path planning, thereby ensuring the planning of both efficiency and path quality. Firstly, the path planning phase is formulated as a multi-objective optimization problem, taking into account the environmental constraints of the UAV mission and path safety. Subsequently, the multi-dimensional environmental data is transformed into a two-dimensional probabilistic map. An improved ant colony algorithm is proposed to efficiently generate high-quality sets of headings, facilitating the preliminary heading planning for UAVs. Then, the three-dimensional environment of the heading regions is extracted, and an improved Dung Beetle algorithm with multiple strategies is proposed to optimize the three-dimensional path in the secondary layer accurately. The efficacy and quality of the proposed path planning methodology are substantiated through comprehensive simulation analysis.

Research on Public Space Interior Environmental Planning and Design Method Based on BIM Topological Relationships

With the wide application of building information modeling (BIM) technology in the field of architectural design, this study aims to explore the planning and design method of public space internal environment based on BIM topological relationship. Through in-depth analysis of the data structure and spatial topological relationships of BIM models, this study proposes a public space design framework that combines user needs and environmental standards. Collect and convert relevant data of public spaces into BIM models, use BIM technology to establish detailed models of spatial elements and their topological relationships, combine spatial connectivity, line of sight, and flow simulation analysis, and consider key factors such as spatial layout, lighting, and ventilation. Realize the planning and design of indoor environments in public spaces. The experimental results indicate that the method can effectively improve the quality of public space design and promote the sustainable development of the environment. This study not only highlights the application potential of BIM in public space design, but also provides a new design methodology for the internal environmental planning of public space.