The diffusion of digital technologies in landscape planning – A scoping literature review

Beata Dreksler, Katarzyna Rędzińska, Piotr Rędziński and Salpy Nalbandian

Land Use Policy, 2025, vol. 154, issue C

Abstract: This study investigates digital technologies (DT) in landscape planning (LP). The aim, was to systematically map and assess the degree of use of digital technologies in, landscape planning as well as propose guidance for further research, We performed a scoping review of 53,114 papers published from January 2012 until, May 2023. We followed the PRISMA-ScR framework, combined with semi-automated, data charting and bibliometric analysis. This approach allowed us to identify and, classify relevant literature, technology trends, and correlations between different DT.The algorithms we developed can be used to monitor DT in LP. By comprehensive, analysis, we identified trends and their dynamics over the last decade, the direction of technological evolution, and correlations between the technologies. We identified 35 technologies, which we grouped into 12 categories: Remote Sensing (RS); Geographical Information Systems (GIS); Other Digital Modelling (mathematical and statistical); Artificial Intelligence Related (AI-Related); Information and Communication Technologies (ICT); 3D Modelling; Data; Decision Support Systems (DSS); Robotic; Virtual Reality/Augmented Reality/Mixed Reality (VR/AR/MR); Social Media; and Computer Aided Design (CAD). Our analysis revealed that only a few are currently integral to the planning process (RS, GIS, Other Digital Modelling, AI-Related, and 3D Modelling), whereas others, such as AI and data technologies, now rapidly evolving, have started to expand their application. Machine Learning (ML) and RS are the most dynamically growing technologies while emerging technologies include Other ICT, BIM, VR/AR/MR, and Social Media. The most prominent reciprocal correlation is between Data – RS – AIRelated. This study's significance lies in its comprehensive mapping of digital technologies in landscape planning, which provides valuable insights for planners, policymakers, and researchers. Major conclusions reveal that more knowledge of technologies explicitly targeting the LP is needed, including understanding and associating their feasibility and application for different process phases and smooth overall workflow. While our scoping literature review provided comprehensive information on DT for the LP process, the next step is developing practical toolboxes

Keywords: Urban planning; Digitization; Urban design; Spatial planning; Planning process (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:lauspo:v:154:y:2025:i:c:s0264837725000833

DOI: 10.1016/j.landusepol.2025.107549

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