Use of a Hybrid MCDM-GIS Model for Planning and Ranking Rural Service Centers: Case Study: Central Zone of the Indica County
Amir Bastaminia *
Department of Geography and Urban Planning, School of Humanities, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran
Omran Kohzadi
Department of Urban Development and Architecture, Islamic Azad University, Shoshtar Branch, Shoshtar, Iran
Morteza Omidipour
Department of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
Eisa Miri
Department of Geography and Urban Planning, Islamic Azad University of Yasouj, Yasouj, Iran
Hamid Partoo
Department of Accounting, Islamic Azad University, Ahvaz Branch, Ahvaz, Iran
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The aim of this study was to develop a method for spatial zoning and the establishment of rural service centers in the central zone of Indica county with consideration of environmental, social, and economic criteria. The research type is applied and the research method is descriptive-analytical. First, using the Delphi method, the most important factors influenced in the establishment of rural service centers were identified. Boolean logic was used to assess the status of existing settlement centers, and hybrid MCDM_ GIS method was used to plan for the establishment of new rural service centers. Finally, results of the research proposed a model for organizing the establishment of rural service centers in the study area. The analysis of the identified zones suggests that the areas which were more populated and had higher levels of infrastructure facilities and services were located in the most suitable zones. Moreover, among the natural factors, the land slope played the greatest role in selecting a location for the establishment of a rural service center.
Keywords: Rural service centers, MCDM-GIS model, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Indica, Delphi method