Comparative Analysis of 3D GIS in Urban Redevelopment Planning

Thesis Abstract

Urban redevelopment planning increasingly relies on 3D geographic information systems (3D GIS) to visualize, analyze, and simulate spatial configurations, yet comparative assessments of 3D GIS capabilities across planning practice remain limited. This study addresses the problem of inconsistent 3D GIS adoption and performance in urban redevelopment by evaluating how different 3D GIS platforms support decision-making processes, stakeholder engagement, and projection of long-term urban form outcomes. The aim is to compare the effectiveness, efficiency, and equity implications of 3D GIS tools in informing redevelopment strategies across varied urban contexts. Specific objectives are to (i) compare data integration, modeling functionality, and visualization clarity across three leading 3D GIS platforms (ArcGIS Pro, Autodesk InfraWorks, and Esri CityEngine) in a common redevelopment scenario; (ii) assess how 3D representations influence planners’ analytical capabilities, scenario development, and communication with stakeholders; (iii) examine the impact of 3D GIS on decision quality with respect to land-use compatibility, transportation accessibility, and environmental risk; and (iv) develop a framework of best practices for deploying 3D GIS in redevelopment planning that accounts for data availability and institutional constraints. The study is guided by the theoretical lenses of Technological Frames and Sensemaking Theory to understand how practitioners’ beliefs and organizational routines shape the interpretation and uptake of 3D GIS outputs, and by the Spatial Decision Support Systems (SDSS) framework to evaluate problem-framing, model integration, and user interaction. A mixed-methods research design is employed. The population comprises planning departments and consultancies involved in municipal redevelopment projects in three mid-sized cities with contrasting typologies (historic core with high heritage value, polycentric growth, and post-industrial waterfront). A purposive sample of 36 planning professionals (12 per city) participates, supplemented by a sample of 18 stakeholder interviewees representing community groups and developers. Data collection instruments include standardized performance benchmarks for 3D GIS platforms, task-based usability tests, survey instruments measuring decision quality and perceived usefulness, semi-structured interview guides, and a document review protocol. Usability tests involve 12 redevelopment scenarios executed on each platform, with metrics capturing model build time, data interoperability, visualization accuracy, and decision support outputs. Reliability and validity are established through pilot testing, inter-rater agreement on qualitative coding (Cohen’s kappa ? 0.70), and triangulation across methods. Quantitative data are analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA to compare platform performance across key criteria, multivariate regression to identify determinants of perceived decision quality, and cluster analysis to group scenarios by outcome efficiency. Qualitative data are analyzed thematically, with coding anchored in Technological Frames and Sensemaking constructs, followed by cross-case synthesis. A conceptual model integrating elements of SDSS is used to frame platform-specific capabilities, data workflows, and user interactions. Expected findings include (a) distinct strengths and weaknesses across ArcGIS Pro, InfraWorks, and CityEngine in terms of data integration agility, 3D parameterization, and scenario visualization fidelity; (b) evidence that 3D GIS improves planners’ ability to detect land-use conflicts, assess transport accessibility, and communicate complex redevelopment proposals to stakeholders, with varying magnitudes across contexts; (c) significant associations between platform usability, data quality, and higher perceived decision quality, moderated by organizational factors such as data governance maturity and capacity for cross-disciplinary collaboration; and (d) a practical framework of best practices for 3D GIS deployment that emphasizes data standardization, model interoperability, scenario governance, and stakeholder engagement protocols. The study contributes to knowledge by providing an empirical, cross-contextual evaluation of 3D GIS effectiveness in urban redevelopment, offering a transferable methodological blueprint for comparative platform assessment, and delivering a decision-support framework that integrates technical capabilities with organizational dynamics. It informs policy and practice by identifying instrumented indicators for platform selection, data management, and stakeholder communication, thereby enhancing the transparency and inclusivity of redevelopment planning processes. The conclusion anticipates that while no single 3D GIS platform universally outperforms others, an integrative workflow that leverages the complementary strengths of each tool—coupled with robust data governance and targeted training—produces the most impactful improvements in decision quality and urban form outcomes. Recommendations include developing standardized data schemas for 3D urban models, formalized cross-platform interoperability protocols, and capacity-building programs for planners and community representatives to maximize the value of 3D GIS in redevelopment planning.