A Hybrid Approach for the Acquisition and Analysis of Distributed Knowledge on Spatial Planning: The Case Study of the Master Plan for Brindisi (Italy)

In the field of spatial planning, the role of knowledge resulting from a cognitive bottom-up approach is increasing. In a “cognitive planning” approach the environment represents a biological and cultural expression of the relationship between population, activities and places. Yet defining an appropriate model to represent the different cognitive frames and interests arising from this complex relationship is difficult. In this context, investigating on knowledge representation is of great importance, today augmented using intelligent cognitive tools and models. This work shows a case-based approach based combining traditional participatory techniques with knowledge elicitation and exchange support for bottom-up spatial planning. Specifically, a scenario-building approach has been implemented in an ICT-based environment that has allowed a widespread data collection on an extended sample of citizens. Visions and strategic actions proposed by the citizens involved have been formalized through formal data analyses, so becoming useful material to test the effectiveness of strategies proposed in a decision-support system architecture. The methodology was applied on an experimental basis during the knowledge-building phase of public participation for the new Master plan of the city of Brindisi (Italy).