Technology

Space Syntax has developed a set of advanced software tools that evaluate the role of spatial layout in shaping patterns of human behaviour. This technology has been applied in hundreds of consultancy projects throughout the world over many years. Built around innovative spatial network algorithms and harnessing the power of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), our tools measure the effects of spatial layout on a wide range of social and economic indicators. Space Syntax technology covers the urban scale, from regional spatial network analysis to the layout of individual streets and public spaces. It includes the analysis of building layouts, from their strategic circulation design to detailed space-planning.

The list below provides a summary of typical applications.

URBAN ANALYSIS

Urban form
Spatial layout accessibility measurement.

Spatial catchment analysis.

Urban block size measurement.

Land use location mapping.

Active frontage location mapping.

Building entrance location mapping.

Rental income mapping.

Property value/spatial location measurement.

Urban functioning
Existing pedestrian movement measurement

• flow distribution
• flow volume
• flow density .

Pedestrian movement forecasting

• flow distribution
• flow volume
• flow density.

Pedestrian crossing evaluation.

Pedestrian density measurement.

Domestic burglary threat measurement.

Personal assault threat measurement.

building analysis

Building form
Spatial layout accessibility measurement.

Ease of wayfinding evaluation.

Retail attractor/departmental adjacency analysis.

Rental income mapping.

Building functioning
Existing user flow mapping.

User flow forecasting

• flow distribution
• flow volume
• flow density.

Retail browsing & buying location analysis.

Workplace communications evaluation.

Staff satisfaction/usefulness evaluation.

Advantages of the technology
Because Space Syntax technology is ‘space-based’:

• it can be used both to understand how existing cities, urban areas and buildings are working, and to simulate the likely effect of new interventions.
  
• it can be used as a framework for integrating information about other socio-economics factors into the design and planning process.

The power of the technology, its theoretical foundations and the knowledge base on which it can call are each factors that make Space Syntax a unique approach to help in the creation of economic and social value through evidence based design and planning.