GIS for Urban Design and Planning

Every great city plan begins with data. Understanding how to map, analyze, and visualize spatial relationships is an essential skill for anyone looking to influence the future of our urban environments. This text-based course guides you through the foundational concepts of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applied specifically to urban design and spatial planning. You will transition from understanding basic geographic principles to actively interpreting complex city layers. By learning how to read and analyze spatial data, you will be able to make informed proposals for zoning, transit, and public spaces. What you'll learn: - Understand foundational GIS terminology, spatial data formats, and coordinate systems - Map urban environments to observe patterns in population, land use, and infrastructure - Analyze geographic data to identify spatial inequalities and urban development needs - Apply modern open-source GIS tools to visualize and represent city structures - Integrate contemporary open data sources and public registries into your planning workflows - Design clear, informative static maps that communicate planning proposals effectively Starting with core geographic concepts and terminology, this course guides you step-by-step through data collection, spatial analysis, and map design. You will learn through clear, written explanations, practical examples, and structured conceptual exercises. This course is designed entirely for beginners with no prior GIS or design experience. If you are curious about how cities are analyzed and planned, this is the perfect starting point. Start reading today to build your foundational urban mapping skills.