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Glossary

The glossary of related digital and planning terms includes definitions and explanations of key concepts, terminology, and acronyms commonly used in the field.
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3D Printing

The process of creating three-dimensional objects from a digital file, often used in urban planning for prototyping and model making.

5G Technology

The fifth generation of mobile network technology, offering faster speeds and more reliable internet connections, which can enhance data collection and communication in urban planning.

A

Aerial Photography

A technique for capturing images of the Earth’s surface from an elevated position using cameras mounted on aircraft, drones, satellites, or other flying platforms.

Analytics

The systematic computational analysis of data or statistics, used to discover, interpret, and communicate meaningful patterns in data.

API (Application Programming Interface)

A set of rules that allows different software entities to communicate with each other, facilitating the integration of various systems and applications.

APP (Application)

A software program designed to perform a specific function directly for the user or, in some cases, for another application programme.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

The simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. These processes include learning, reasoning, and self-correction.

Augmented Reality (AR)

An interactive experience that combines real-world environments with computer-generated content, enhancing the user’s perception of reality.

Automation

The use of technology to perform tasks without human intervention, often to improve efficiency and accuracy.

B

Big Data

Extremely large data sets that may be analysed computationally to reveal patterns, trends, and associations, especially relating to human behaviour and interactions.

Building Information Modelling (BIM)

A digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a facility, which serves as a shared knowledge resource for information about a building.

C

CAD (Computer-Aided Design)

The use of computer systems to assist in the creation, modification, analysis, or optimisation of a design.

Cloud Computing

The delivery of computing services over the internet, allowing for on-demand access to a shared pool of configurable resources, such as storage and processing power.

Community Engagement

The process of involving the public and stakeholders in decision-making and planning activities to ensure their views and needs are considered.

Crowdsourcing

The practice of obtaining information, ideas, or services from a large group of people, often via the internet, to leverage collective intelligence.

Cybersecurity

The practice of protecting systems, networks, and programmes from digital attacks, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.

D

Data Analytics

The process of examining data sets to draw conclusions about the information they contain, often using specialised systems and software.

Data Literacy

The ability to read, understand, create, and communicate data as information. It involves skills like interpreting data visualisations, analysing data, making data-driven decisions, and effectively presenting data insights.

Data Science

An interdisciplinary field that uses scientific methods, processes, algorithms, and systems to extract knowledge and insights from structured and unstructured data.

Design Codes

Guidelines that dictate the design and development of buildings and spaces to ensure they meet certain standards and aesthetic criteria.

Digital Devices

Electronic devices that can receive, process, and output data, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers.

Digital Transformation

The integration of digital technology into all areas of an organisation, fundamentally changing how it operates and delivers value.

Digital Twins

Digital replicas of physical assets, systems, or environments that are used to simulate, analyse, and monitor real-world conditions in real-time.

Disruption

Innovations that significantly alter or replace existing markets, industries, or technologies.

Drones

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with cameras and sensors used for aerial photography, mapping, and real-time data collection in urban planning and construction.

E

Earth Observation (EO)

The gathering of information about the Earth’s physical, chemical, and biological systems via remote sensing technologies, typically involving satellites or high-altitude aircraft.

End User

The person or group who will ultimately use a product or service.

G

Gamification

The application of game design elements in non-game contexts to engage and motivate users, enhancing community interaction, participation, and user engagement strategies.

Geographical Information Systems (GIS)

Systems designed to capture, store, manipulate, analyse, manage, and present spatial or geographic data.

H

Hardware

The physical components of a computer system, such as the processor, memory, and storage devices.

I

Internet of Things (IoT)

The network of physical objects embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies to connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the internet.

L

Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging)

A remote sensing technology that uses laser light to measure distances and create high-resolution three-dimensional maps of the terrain and built environment.

M

Machine Learning (ML)

A subset of AI that focuses on the development of algorithms and statistical models that enable computer systems to improve their performance on a specific task through experience.

Metadata

Data that provides information about other data, such as its origin, structure, and meaning.

Models

Simplified representations of systems or processes used to simulate and analyse real-world scenarios.

O

Online Public Participation

The use of digital platforms to engage the public in decision-making processes, allowing for broader and more inclusive participation.

Open Data

Data that is freely available for anyone to use, modify, and share, often provided by governments and organisations to promote transparency and innovation.

P

Photogrammetry

The science and technology of obtaining reliable information about physical objects and the environment through the process of recording, measuring, and interpreting photographic images.

Planning Support Systems

Integrated sets of tools and technologies designed to assist planners in decision-making processes.

PlanTech

The application of technology to planning processes, enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and effectiveness of urban planning.

Platform

A digital environment that allows various applications, services, or users to interact and perform tasks.

PropTech

The use of technology to innovate and improve the real estate industry, encompassing everything from property management to construction.

R

Radar

A remote sensing technology that uses radio waves to detect and measure the distance, speed, and other characteristics of objects. It is used in urban planning for tasks such as traffic monitoring and infrastructure assessment.

Real-Time Streaming

The continuous transmission of data in real-time, allowing for immediate processing and analysis.

Remote Sensing

The process of detecting and monitoring the physical characteristics of an area by measuring its reflected and emitted radiation at a distance, typically from satellite or aircraft.

S

Satellite Imagery

Images of the Earth captured by satellites, used in urban planning for mapping, monitoring, and analysing land use and environmental changes.

Simulation

The use of models to replicate real-world processes or systems for the purpose of analysis, training, or decision-making.

Smart Cities

Urban areas that use digital technology and data to enhance performance, improve quality of life, and reduce costs and resource consumption.

Social Media

Digital platforms that enable users to create, share, and interact with content and each other, often used for communication and public engagement.

Software

Programmes and operating information used by a computer to perform specific tasks.

Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)

A form of radar used to create two or three-dimensional images of objects, such as landscapes, usable through cloud cover and at night.

V

Virtual Reality (VR)

A simulated experience that can be similar to or completely different from the real world, often used for training, education, and urban planning visualisation.

Visualisation

The process of creating visual representations of data or concepts to make information more accessible and understandable.

W

Web-based Mapping

The use of web technologies to create interactive maps that can be accessed and manipulated online.

Workflow Management

The coordination and automation of processes and tasks within an organisation to improve efficiency and productivity.

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