Mapping Urban Innovation Ecosystems: A Tool for Strategic Spatial Planning

Planning Theory & Practice 2026 Open access

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Authors: Emil Israel, Amnon Frenkel, Ofer Lerner, Attila Aba, Domokos Esztergár‐Kiss, Tomáš Horák, Jiří Plíhal, Alain Thierstein, Fabian Wenner
DOI: 10.1080/14649357.2026.2622673
Cited by: 0
References: 82

Abstract

Planning decisions are frequently impeded by an inadequate understanding of complex urban environments, necessitating data-driven and creative strategies. Based on a developed research question on this need, this study proposes a tool founded in the literature on strategic planning, sustainable development, and planning system innovation. The proposed tool depicts the components and interactions within urban ecosystems. The study employs the public transport sector as a case study to demonstrate the operationalization of the tool in Munich, Budapest, and Prague. The demonstration shows how the tool may better inform and support strategic urban planning decisions.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Urban Planning and Governance Smart Cities and Technologies Local Governance and Planning

Publication details

Journal / source
Planning Theory & Practice
Volume
27
Issue
1
Pages
52–80
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN