Application of ICT in spatial planning

Ing. Jan Kabrhel

Doctoral thesis

Abstract:

This dissertation explores the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) in spatial planning, with a particular focus on tools of extended reality (XR) and its potential in facilitating public participation in the planning process. The central theme is the relationship between the degree of participation, the openness of decision-making processes, and the legitimacy of planning outcomes. The thesis identifies and describes various levels of immersion associated with visualisation methods used in planning, positing that higher levels of immersion are linked to a deeper understanding of the presented content by participants. At the same time, the study highlights potential risks of distortion and manipulation that may increase with the level of immersion. Building on a synthesis of prior research, the study develops recommendations for the effective and responsible use of ICT technologies in planning processes. The analysis takes into account the specificities of institutional settings as well as different forms of public participation. The outcome is a set of proposals aimed at improving communicative capacity, transparency, and the quality of decision-making in spatial planning through digital tools, along with suggestions for future research directions.

Keywords

visualisation, participation, co-creation, 3D, spatial planning, augmented reality, augmented virtuality, virtual reality

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 28. 10. 2025

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: prof. Ing. arch. Karel Maier, CSc.
• Reader: Jiří Cajthaml, externi, Jan Henrik Haunert, externi

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Faculty of Environmental Sciences

Doctoral programme:
Applied and Landscape Ecology