PC-based sketch planning methods for transport and urban applications

Historically, computer models have grown in complexity, and consequently have become more difficult to use. At the same time there is a growing need for quick-response methods and techniques for broad-brush policy formulation and decision making. The personal computer and its attendant software offer new means for quantitative sketch planning. This paper illustrates two PC-based applications for quick-response exercises. These involve interactive mapping and data analysis methods for the appraisal and interpretation of transport data, and the development and use of eclectic models for systems analysis and scenario generation. The LAMM and DIAMONDS packages are described, and their use in data analysis is illustrated. The Trends Integrator Procedure (TIP) is used to formulate a simple but versatile model for investigation of developments in an urban retailing system. These packages all run on PC's and offer powerful and adaptive tools for improved transport planning.Nomenclature a _i a technical coefficient indicating the influence of the unique factor component (U _i ) for factor F _i - c _ij a technical coefficient relating the influence of factor F _i on factor F _j - F _i the relative change in the level of factor F _i - U _i the relative change in the unique factor component for F _i