Applied Spatial Analysis and Policy

Scope & Guideline

Elevating research to drive effective spatial policies.

Introduction

Welcome to the Applied Spatial Analysis and Policy information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of Applied Spatial Analysis and Policy, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1874-463x
PublisherSPRINGER
Support Open AccessNo
CountryNetherlands
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2009 to 2024
AbbreviationAPPL SPAT ANAL POLIC / Appl. Spat. Anal. Policy
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressVAN GODEWIJCKSTRAAT 30, 3311 GZ DORDRECHT, NETHERLANDS

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'Applied Spatial Analysis and Policy' focuses on the application of spatial analysis techniques to address complex policy issues across various domains. It aims to bridge the gap between empirical research and practical applications, emphasizing the importance of spatial data and methodologies in informing policy decisions.
  1. Spatial Analysis Methodologies:
    The journal covers a wide range of spatial analysis techniques, including geostatistics, spatial econometrics, and GIS-based methods, to analyze and visualize spatial phenomena.
  2. Urban and Regional Planning:
    Research often focuses on urban development, land use, and regional planning, addressing the spatial dynamics of cities and their surrounding areas.
  3. Environmental Policy and Management:
    Papers frequently explore the intersection of spatial analysis and environmental issues, such as climate change, pollution, and resource management, offering insights for sustainable practices.
  4. Health and Social Policy:
    The journal examines the spatial dimensions of public health and social inequalities, emphasizing how geographic factors influence health outcomes and access to services.
  5. Economic Development:
    Research includes studies on economic patterns, industrial clustering, and the spatial distribution of resources, contributing to understanding regional economic dynamics.
  6. Transportation and Mobility:
    The journal investigates the spatial aspects of transportation systems, including accessibility, public transit, and the impact of infrastructure on mobility patterns.
  7. Community Engagement and Participation:
    Research often highlights the role of community input in spatial planning processes, utilizing participatory GIS and public engagement methodologies.
The journal is witnessing a shift in focus towards several emerging themes that reflect contemporary challenges and advancements in spatial analysis. The following topics are trending in recent publications, showcasing their relevance and potential impact.
  1. COVID-19 Impact Studies:
    Research examining the spatial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, including analyses of urban decline, public health access, and economic recovery, has surged, reflecting the pandemic's profound effects on spatial dynamics.
  2. Climate Change and Environmental Justice:
    There is an increasing emphasis on studies that explore the spatial dimensions of climate change and environmental justice, particularly how these issues affect vulnerable populations.
  3. Data-Driven Decision Making:
    The integration of big data and advanced analytics in spatial decision-making processes is a growing theme, highlighting the importance of data in informing policy and planning.
  4. Smart Cities and Urban Technology:
    Research focusing on smart city initiatives, urban technology, and their spatial implications is gaining traction as cities adopt innovative approaches to urban challenges.
  5. Health Disparities and Accessibility:
    Papers addressing spatial health disparities, particularly related to access to healthcare services and the impact of geographic factors on health outcomes, are increasingly prevalent.
  6. Participatory Spatial Planning:
    There is a rising interest in participatory planning approaches that involve community engagement and stakeholder input in spatial decision-making processes.
  7. Mobility and Transportation Networks:
    Emerging studies are focusing on the spatial analysis of transportation networks, accessibility, and their role in shaping urban mobility patterns.

Declining or Waning

While 'Applied Spatial Analysis and Policy' has consistently focused on various spatial analysis applications, certain themes appear to be fading in prominence based on recent publications. The following areas are observed to be less frequently addressed in the latest research.
  1. Traditional Land Use Planning:
    There is a noticeable decline in papers focusing solely on traditional land use planning without the integration of advanced spatial analysis techniques, as the field shifts towards more dynamic and data-driven approaches.
  2. Basic Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Applications:
    Research that merely describes GIS applications without substantial analytical depth or policy implications is waning, indicating a move towards more complex and integrated spatial analyses.
  3. Historical Spatial Analysis:
    Fewer studies are being published that focus on historical spatial analysis alone, as the journal increasingly emphasizes contemporary applications and real-time data analysis.
  4. Single-Factor Economic Analyses:
    Papers that analyze economic factors in isolation, without considering the multi-faceted interactions of social, environmental, and spatial variables, are becoming less common.
  5. Static Spatial Models:
    The journal is moving away from static models that do not account for temporal changes, reflecting a growing preference for dynamic and adaptive modeling approaches.

Similar Journals

APPLIED GEOGRAPHY

Transforming data into impactful geographical solutions.
Publisher: ELSEVIER SCI LTDISSN: 0143-6228Frequency: 10 issues/year

APPLIED GEOGRAPHY, published by Elsevier Science Ltd, stands as a premier journal within the fields of environmental science, geography, planning and development, as well as tourism, leisure, and hospitality management. With an impressive 2023 impact factor that reflects its high citation rates, this journal is ranked Q1 in several categories, underscoring its significance and influence in interdisciplinary research. Covering a broad range of topics from innovative environmental practices to spatial analysis and socio-economic factors affecting tourism, APPLIED GEOGRAPHY promotes insightful discussions and practical applications that are vital for advancing knowledge and practice in these fields. Researchers, professionals, and students will find the journal's rigorous peer-reviewed articles invaluable for staying informed about the latest trends and findings impacting the geospatial landscape. As an essential resource, APPLIED GEOGRAPHY aims to foster interdisciplinary collaborations and inspire scholarly dialogue, making it a cornerstone for those engaged in the study and application of geography across various sectors.

COMPUTERS ENVIRONMENT AND URBAN SYSTEMS

Transforming Urban Landscapes Through Computational Insights
Publisher: ELSEVIER SCI LTDISSN: 0198-9715Frequency: 6 issues/year

COMPUTERS ENVIRONMENT AND URBAN SYSTEMS, published by Elsevier Science Ltd, is a premier journal dedicated to advancing the intersection of computational techniques and urban environmental studies. With an ISSN of 0198-9715 and an E-ISSN of 1873-7587, this journal has established itself as a leading publication since its inception, spanning its converged years from 1980 to 1986 and from 1988 to 2024. Operating out of the United Kingdom and located at 125 London Wall, London EC2Y 5AS, the journal boasts impressive rankings, with a Q1 classification in multiple categories including Ecological Modeling and Urban Studies, solidifying its reputation in the academic community. Researchers and professionals engaged in ecological modeling, urban geography, and spatial planning will find a wealth of high-quality research articles that facilitate innovative solutions to contemporary urban challenges. Although the journal does not currently offer open access options, it remains a crucial resource for scholars aiming to contribute to the sustainable development of urban environments.

JOURNAL OF URBAN PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT

Innovating Solutions for Sustainable Urban Development.
Publisher: ASCE-AMER SOC CIVIL ENGINEERSISSN: 0733-9488Frequency: 4 issues/year

The JOURNAL OF URBAN PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT, published by the ASCE-AMER SOC CIVIL ENGINEERS, stands as a pivotal platform in the realms of urban studies, civil and structural engineering, and development. With an ISSN of 0733-9488 and E-ISSN of 1943-5444, this journal aims to disseminate high-quality research addressing critical urban planning challenges, fostering innovative solutions, and contributing to sustainable development practices. Spanning from its inception in 1979 to the anticipated issues up to 2024, the journal proudly occupies the Q2 category across multiple disciplines, including Civil and Structural Engineering, Development, Geography, Planning and Development, and Urban Studies. Its noteworthy Scopus rankings reflect its influence, notably being positioned in the 76th percentile in Urban Studies. With no open access options currently available, the journal remains a selective forum for scholarly discourse, attracting researchers, professionals, and students eager to engage with cutting-edge developments in urban planning and design.

Cuadernos Geograficos

Unlocking insights into our dynamic earth-surface processes.
Publisher: UNIV GRANADAISSN: 0210-5462Frequency: 2 issues/year

Cuadernos Geograficos is a distinguished open access journal published by UNIV GRANADA in Spain, dedicated to advancing the fields of geography, planning, and earth-surface processes. With an ISSN of 0210-5462 and E-ISSN 2340-0129, this journal has been serving as an essential platform for scholars since its inception in 1983. By providing rigorous peer-reviewed research, Cuadernos Geograficos contributes significantly to the academic discourse within these disciplines, holding a respectable position in the Q3 category for both Earth-Surface Processes and Geography, Planning, and Development as of 2023. The journal is indexed in Scopus, ranking #431/821 in Social Sciences and #100/179 in Earth and Planetary Sciences, affirming its relevance and impact within the scholarly community. With its commitment to open access since 1999, Cuadernos Geograficos ensures that vital research is accessible to a diverse audience of researchers, professionals, and students, fostering knowledge sharing and collaborative advancements in the geographical sciences.

GROWTH AND CHANGE

Exploring the intersections of sustainability and development.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0017-4815Frequency: 4 issues/year

GROWTH AND CHANGE is a prestigious academic journal published by Wiley, focusing on the interdisciplinary study of global and planetary change. Since its inception in 1970, this journal has served as a critical platform for researchers and scholars who seek to explore the complexities of social, economic, and environmental transformations occurring worldwide. With an impressive impact factor and renowned for its rigor, it currently holds a Q2 ranking in the Global and Planetary Change category as per the latest metrics. GROWTH AND CHANGE can be accessed through traditional subscriptions, catering to a broad audience including professionals and academic institutions. Its objectives revolve around advancing knowledge and fostering critical discussions that illuminate the challenges posed by rapid change and growth in our environments. Positioned at the forefront of debates in sustainability and development, this journal is indispensable for anyone vested in understanding and addressing the interconnected issues of our changing world.

Regional Studies Regional Science

Bridging Disciplines to Understand Regional Change
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 2168-1376Frequency: 1 issue/year

Regional Studies Regional Science is a pioneering journal published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, specializing in the interdisciplinary examination of regional dynamics and their effects on economic, social, and environmental landscapes. Established as an open-access journal since 2014, it ensures widespread dissemination of knowledge, promoting accessibility for researchers, professionals, and students alike. Based in the United Kingdom, this journal has garnered a notable reputation, holding a Category Quartile ranking of Q2 in 2023 across various fields, including Economics and Econometrics, Geography, Planning and Development, and Sociology and Political Science. Its rankings in the Scopus database reflect its growing influence within the social sciences, positioning it as a valuable resource for contemporary regional studies. With a commitment to high-quality research, Regional Studies Regional Science serves as a vital platform for the exchange of innovative ideas and empirical findings that address the pressing challenges faced by regions worldwide.

African Geographical Review

Navigating Earth-Surface Processes Across the African Continent
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1937-6812Frequency: 3 issues/year

African Geographical Review is a pivotal academic journal published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, whose mission is to advance knowledge and understanding of geographical dynamics across the African continent. With an ISSN of 1937-6812 and an E-ISSN of 2163-2642, this journal consistently delivers high-quality research, showcasing innovative perspectives and interdisciplinary approaches within the fields of Earth-Surface Processes and Geography, Planning and Development. Recognized in 2023 with a Q2 ranking in these categories, it ranks #231 out of 821 in Social Sciences and #63 out of 179 in Earth and Planetary Sciences according to Scopus metrics, reflecting its substantial impact and relevance. Featuring research that spans various geographic themes, the journal not only champions academic inquiry but also fosters a deeper understanding of spatial and environmental challenges unique to Africa. Engaging with a diverse audience of researchers, professionals, and students, the African Geographical Review serves as an indispensable resource for those committed to enhancing geographic scholarship and informing sustainable development practices across the continent.

Journal of Transport Geography

Advancing Knowledge at the Intersection of Mobility and Environment
Publisher: ELSEVIER SCI LTDISSN: 0966-6923Frequency: 8 issues/year

The Journal of Transport Geography, published by Elsevier Ltd, stands as a premier international platform for the dissemination of research at the intersection of transportation and geography. Established in 1993, this journal explores critical issues in transport systems, spatial analysis, and environmental impacts, providing invaluable insights for academics, policymakers, and industry practitioners. With an impressive impact factor and ranking within the top quartiles across multiple categories including Environmental Science and Geography, Planning and Development, the journal is recognized for its rigorous peer-review process and high-quality contributions. As it converges towards the target year of 2024, the Journal of Transport Geography continues to serve as an essential resource for understanding the challenges and innovations shaping transportation landscapes globally. Access to its research is available through traditional subscription models, reinforcing its commitment to supporting the advancement of knowledge in this vital field.

disP

Shaping Tomorrow's Geographical Strategies
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0251-3625Frequency: 4 issues/year

disP is a premier journal dedicated to the interdisciplinary field of geographical planning and development, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd. With a focus spanning from 1980 to 2024, this esteemed publication serves as a crucial platform for sharing innovative research and insights that address pressing spatial challenges and planning methodologies. The journal is recognized for its significant contribution to academia, currently positioned in the Q2 category within Geography, Planning and Development according to the 2023 rankings. It occupies a noteworthy rank of #423 out of 821 in the Scopus database, placing it in the 48th percentile for social sciences within its category. Although it does not offer open access, disP remains an essential source for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to deepen their understanding of complex development issues and spatial strategies. Its commitment to excellence in research ensures that disP continues to be an influential voice in shaping the future of geographical planning and development.

GEOJOURNAL

Exploring the Dynamics of Geography and Development
Publisher: SPRINGERISSN: 0343-2521Frequency: 6 issues/year

GEOJOURNAL, published by SPRINGER, is a distinguished academic journal that occupies a pivotal role in the fields of geography, planning, and development. With a robust ISSN of 0343-2521 and an E-ISSN of 1572-9893, it has been a cornerstone of scholarly communication since its inception in 1977. Operating from the Netherlands, GEOJOURNAL offers insightful research articles that delve into the dynamics of spatial analysis, environmental management, urban studies, and regional development, thus catering to a diverse readership of researchers, professionals, and students alike. The journal boasts an impressive Scopus ranking of #176 out of 821 in its category, positioning it in the top 22% percentile while maintaining a Q2 quartile ranking in Geography, Planning, and Development as of 2023. With access options available, GEOJOURNAL remains a vital platform for disseminating cutting-edge research and fostering academic collaboration, indispensable for those engaging with contemporary geographic challenges and innovative solutions. Engage with GEOJOURNAL to enrich your understanding and contribute to critical discussions in this ever-evolving field.