Information Systems for Integrated Regional Planning
Authors: Nijkamp P, Rietveld P
Publication Year: 1983
Reference: North Holland Publishing Co., Amsterdam, Netherlands [1983]
[ISBN 0-444-8682-3]
Abstract
The purpose of this book is to present a scientific reflection on information systems for planning and policy analysis. Because of the information explosion, there is a need for a closer investigation of information systems for public policy making. The following arguments may justify this endeavor.
Information systems (especially those haing many kinds of information) may provide a integrative framework for multidisciplinary work. Data and information systems contribute to the foundation of operational analysis. Without this empirical and testable foundation, we may run into misinterpretations of complex mechanisms. Thirdly, data and information systems determine the actual relevance of scientific analysis for society, for planning, for management and for policy making. Furthermore, data and information systems are also a prerequisite for building, testing, and using models. Finally, public policy making is increasingly evolving into conflict management, in which each interest group or decision agency uses its own arguments based on a specific information system. A careful analysis of information systems may provide a rational framework for judging different, sometimes conflicting options.
Information systems (especially those haing many kinds of information) may provide a integrative framework for multidisciplinary work. Data and information systems contribute to the foundation of operational analysis. Without this empirical and testable foundation, we may run into misinterpretations of complex mechanisms. Thirdly, data and information systems determine the actual relevance of scientific analysis for society, for planning, for management and for policy making. Furthermore, data and information systems are also a prerequisite for building, testing, and using models. Finally, public policy making is increasingly evolving into conflict management, in which each interest group or decision agency uses its own arguments based on a specific information system. A careful analysis of information systems may provide a rational framework for judging different, sometimes conflicting options.