Using fuzzy cognitive maps to solve the problem of municipal development
Abstract
Using fuzzy cognitive maps to solve the problem of municipal development
Incoming article date: 05.01.2024In the context of rapid urbanization of society, modeling the processes of sustainable urban development has attracted considerable attention from scientists. This paper presents a study of fuzzy cognitive maps (FCMs) as an interdisciplinary model for simulating urban development processes. This highlights the versatility of FCM in integrating expertise and quantifying the impact of indicators that shape urban space, from infrastructure and housing to environmental sustainability and community well-being. The study uses a synthesis of an extensive literature review and expert opinions to create and refine a cognitive map tailored for municipal development. The methodology outlined formulates a systematic approach to selecting concepts, assigning weights, and validating the model. Through collaboration with cross-disciplinary experts, the study confirms the value of FCM for identifying cascading effects in the decision-making process when shaping urban development strategies. Recognizing the limitations of expert methods and the fuzzy nature of data, the article argues for the effectiveness of FCM in not only identifying but also addressing emerging urbanization problems. Ultimately, this article contributes a nuanced perspective to strategic planning discourse by advocating for the use of NCC as a management decision support tool that can assist policymakers in achieving a sustainable and equitable urban future.
Keywords: fuzzy cognitive maps, urban development, urban planning, sustainable urbanization, expert systems, social well-being