Seeing is knowing: data exploration as a support to planning

Planning and decision making on spatial issues is a complex process which deals with a large number of variables, interests and stakeholders. Interactive visualisation tools can help, enabling information to be shared using spatial data visualisation, also known as ‘geo-visualisation’. The idea is that interacting with data can improve users' knowledge and visualisation can increase intuitive perception, making them better equipped to evaluate alternative development options. The visual system presented in this paper works in both two and three dimensions, according to users' skills in interpreting images. It has been used in different applications, with diverse purposes and spatial scopes, showing its effectiveness in creating a common language among stakeholders and enabling discussions on spatial development.