International Journal of Human Capital in Urban Management

Abstract ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The heating of inner cities is an immense global phenomenon, and urban green spaces are crucial in mitigating this predicament. This study evaluates the cooling effects of urban green infrastructures in a dry region, specifically the Middle East by analyzing Tehran, a metropolis severely impacted by urban heating. We use advanced methodologies to estimate regulating ecosystem services.
METHODS: This research employed a multi-stage methodology utilizing satellite data and in-situ measurements. Land use/land cover maps of Tehran were generated using Landsat imagery from Thematic Mapper (2002), Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (2012), and Operational Land Imager (2022), processed with geometric and radiometric corrections in ENVI 5.3. A supervised classification via the Super Vector Machine algorithm identified four land use categories: built-up areas, barren lands, green spaces, and water bodies. The cooling effects of these land uses, analyzed using the InVEST ecosystem service software, were assessed over the 2002-2022 period, incorporating variables such as evapotranspiration, temperature, and shading effects.
FINDINGS: The results showed a decline in green spaces from 13.1% in 2002 to 11.9% in 2012 and 11.8% in 2022, with a projected further decline to 11.7% by 2032. The reduction rate was significant in the first decade, with a loss of 717 hectares, compared to 14 hectares in the second decade. An additional reduction of 66 hectares is predicted over the next decade. The Urban Heat Mitigation Index was highest in the green District 22 with values of 0.91, 0.79, and 0.66, respectively, and lowest in District 10 with values of 0.22, 0.21, and 0.19. Projections for 2032 suggest that District 22 will maintain the highest cooling capacity at 0.65, while District 10 will remain the lowest at 0.19.
CONCLUSION: This study highlights the critical relationship between urban development and green infrastructure. It particularly underscores the importance of preserving green infrastructure as a means to mitigate urban heat, with a focus on its influence on Tehran's microclimate and overall environmental quality. The findings indicate a worrying decline in green spaces, posing significant challenges for urban environmental management. This persistent loss of natural areas undermines ecological stability and urban resilience, especially in terms of heat mitigation and quality of life. Additionally, the uneven distribution of green spaces exacerbates vulnerability in specific Districts, emphasizing the pressing need for sustainable urban planning in Tehran. This study assessed past and future changes to provide valuable insights for urban decision-makers and managers. 

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Economic growth accompanied by population growth results in various negative externalities, one of which is excessive waste production. Waste conditions that are not handled properly will cause a domino effect on the balance of the ecosystem and environmental health. One of the factors that caused the high rate of waste production is the quality of the population, the existing condition of the community, the population, and environmental management, especially waste. This study looks at the causes of excessive daily waste production from various aspects from the perspective of social, economic, and spatial conditions. Not only that, the management of reduce, reuse, and recycle waste is also taken into account in the decrease in the amount of daily waste production.
METHODS: This study identifies spatial distribution through a Geo-Map literature analysis with Vosviewer. The study also examines the influence of social, economic, and spatial factors and the existence of reduce, reuse and recycle waste management sites with daily waste production using Ordinary Least Square Regression using 2022 cross-section data in 34 provinces in Indonesia.
FINDINGS: The results showed that variables with a probability value of α < 0.05 for urban population, Area Size, and Life Expectancy had a significant positive influence on daily waste production. In contrast, the average length of schooling has a significant negative effect. In addition, there are also variables with a probability value of α < 0.10, namely life expectancy and per capita income, which also have a significant positive effect. However, the existence of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle Waste Management, shown by a probability value of α > 0.10, does not show a significant influence on Daily Waste Production. These factors are also reflected in the spatial distribution of the map.
CONCLUSION: It is concluded that the achievement of goal 12 in the Sustainable Development Goals program will be successful if the community is committed to raising awareness of environmental responsibility. Not only that, major adjustments are needed, including the role of reducing, reusing, and recycling waste management towards responsible consumption and production.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The Quality of Work-Life is a dynamic construct shaped by various individual, demographic, occupational, organizational, psychological, and social factors. It encompasses job satisfaction, work-life balance, stress management, participation, engagement, and commitment. This study aims to develop a comprehensive Quality of Work-Life model for the employees in the Tehran municipality through the Lens of Job Demands-Resources theory, which posits that job resources can mitigate job demands and enhance employee well-being. The research assesses the current Quality of Work-Life status within this organizational context.
METHODS: In this study, a sequential qualitative-quantitative mixed method was utilized. The qualitative section employed a systematic review, with its findings informing the hypotheses for the quantitative section. The quantitative segment involved survey methodology, with data analysis conducted using SmartPLS and SPSS software. A hybrid cluster-stratified sampling was used. About 1372 employees sent their answers, and after data cleansing, 1343 answers were analyzed and interpreted.
FINDINGS: The results indicate that Organizational Employer Brand (SM = 0.198, p < 0.05), Organizational Work-Life Balance (SM = 0.429, p < 0.05), Organizational Psychological Atmosphere (SM = -0.151, p < 0.05), Salaries and Benefits (SM = 0.133, p < 0.05), and Social aspect - Communication with Coworkers (SM = 0.066, p < 0.05) have a significant direct effect on Quality of Work-Life and no direct relationship between Job factors and Quality of Work-Life (SM = 0.074, P= 0.068) between Organizational - Physical Conditions and Quality of Work-Life (SM = 0.029, P= 0.344) and between Social aspect - Communication with Managers and Quality of Work-Life (SM = -0.026, P=0.412). Additionally, it is found that Organizational - Physical Conditions (SM = 0.300, p < 0.05), Organizational Work-Life Balance (SM = 0.281, p < 0.05), Social aspect - Communication with Coworkers (SM = 0.291, p < 0.05), and social aspect - Communication with Managers (SM = 0.209, p < 0.05) significantly affect Organizational Psychological Atmosphere and indirect effect on Quality of Work-Life.
CONCLUSION: Findings from the Partial Least Squares - Structural Equation Modeling analysis reveal no direct effect of physical conditions, job factors, or communication with managers on the Quality of Work-Life, although indirect relationships were supported. Direct relationships were noted between psychological atmosphere, communication with coworkers, salary, and benefits, organizational branding, and work-life balance with Quality of Work-Life. According to the Job Demands-Resources theory, this study highlights that resources like organizational branding, psychological atmosphere, work-life balance, and communication significantly enhance the Quality of Work-Life in Tehran municipality, illustrating their essential role in promoting employee well-being.
 

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Traffic congestion, a prevalent global issue, has entrenched itself as a persistent problem, posing substantial challenges for residents and commuters, especially in developing nations. This study addresses this concern by delving into the intensity, patterns, and traffic characteristics within selected road corridors in the Abeokuta metropolis, Nigeria.
METHODS: Data on road types and land use were systematically gathered through structured observations using a pre-designed checklist. Traffic counts were conducted to capture characteristics during the morning and evening peak periods. Traffic volume and capacity were measured in "vehicles per hour" (vph) and Passenger Car Units per hour (PCU/hr). To analyze the data, a chi-square test was used to examine differences in traffic volume between the peak hours, while Analysis of Variance  was applied to assess variations in traffic composition across the studied road corridors.
FINDINGS: The study's findings spotlight Sapo-Ijaye-Iyana Mortuary, recording the highest daily peak traffic volume at 2315 vph, with cars dominating at 4444 vph. Buses emerged as the most impactful vehicle class, influencing 4872 PCU/hr. The Chi-square test indicates no significant differences in vph between morning and evening peaks (x=0.822604; p=0.84405). Correspondingly, Analysis of Variance results (f=3.3106; p=1.0000) suggest that traffic composition did not significantly differ across the surveyed roads.
CONCLUSION:  Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended to enhance road capacities by upgrading infrastructure to accommodate both current and future transportation needs. Additionally, the development of alternative traffic routes, such as rail lines, is suggested to ease the movement of heavy-duty trucks and reduce road congestion. The adoption of intelligent transportation systems is also encouraged to improve traffic management and optimize transportation efficiency.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study explores the phased approaches of post-war urban re-design to present a collaboration between Artificial Intelligence and traditional processes for post-war urban recovery. A hybrid approach enables stakeholders to actively define their city's future by simulating several re-design scenarios utilizing AI data management. This interactive representation of possible results enables well-informed decision-making, where the advantages and limitations are carefully considered, guaranteeing that the re-design aligns with the requirements and needs of the local communities. This integrative method promotes openness and a feeling of responsibility, establishing the basis for resilient urban environments that emerge from conflict.
METHODS: The study establishes a foundation for using Artificial Intelligence technologies to solve complex urban development challenges by critically examining existing approaches for urban re-design after the war and promoting interventions powered by Artificial Intelligence-driven processes. This study aims to contribute to the field of post-war rebuilding of urban landscapes by developing a solution that can be generalized. This study adopts a qualitative methodology approach to investigate the possible integration of Artificial Intelligence in re-designing urban landscapes post-war. The methodology is structured to examine existing approaches and studies of post-war urban recovery, compare traditional and AI-assisted approaches, and propose a hybrid approach that combines both. The study structure is a literature review and theoretical approach development, data collection, and analysis, depending on multiple sources, including government reports and academic research, as well as hybrid approach development.
FINDINGS: The discussion provides theoretical evidence of the potential advances in this empirical approach, highlighting the efficiency improvements achievable by using Artificial Intelligence technologies in a hybrid phased approach that integrates traditional post-war processes with Artificial Intelligence -assisted ones. The study also highlights the importance of ethical considerations in Artificial Intelligence restoration procedures, addressing acceptance, community involvement, and cultural heritage safeguarding concerns. This emphasis on ethics reassures the audience about Artificial Intelligence's responsible and conscientious use in post-war re-design.
CONCLUSION: The study explores the potential integration of Artificial Intelligence in re-designing postwar urban landscapes. It compares conventional methods of urban revival with innovative Artificial Intelligence-supported methods to determine the advantages of utilizing Artificial Intelligence in post-war urban re-design. Traditional techniques for gathering data, allocating resources, and engaging the community have many challenges that negatively affect the effectiveness of re-designing and re-design measures. This study suggests that integrating Artificial Intelligence with traditional strategies can help overcome these challenges by analyzing extensive datasets, which leads to effective decision-making. A hybrid approach combining conventional and Artificial Intelligence-supported methods is suggested to improve the resiliency and sustainability of the re-designing process. It aims to enhance resource distribution and strategic planning through Artificial Intelligence-assisted strategies.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The urban environment on a university campus is constituted by a complex and multifaceted fabric, comprising a diverse array of elements. An understanding of the configuration and relationships between these elements enables designers and planners to create urban architecture that meets the needs of residents. The present study seeks to identify the specific factors that shape the mental image of the urban fabric of the University of Mosul campus. To this end, it reviews and analyses some related studies.
METHODS: This study used a mixed methodology, including quantitative and qualitative methods, to evaluate the impact of architectural elements on the mental image of a university campus. Qualitative information was collected through interviews with urban design experts and old pioneers, while a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to professors, graduate students, and final-year students at the Department of Architecture to obtain quantitative data. The aim was to build on the data and obtain reliable results.
FINDINGS: The results show the most important elements that impacted the mental image, with the opening elements being the most memorable, as they were recognized with about 92% accuracy. In contrast, the plant elements group had less impact, being identified with approximately 33% accuracy.
CONCLUSION: Understanding the process of forming mental images of the urban environment is crucial for future city quality enhancement. Mental images consist of physical and non-physical elements, and attention to detail, aesthetics, and people's preferences can lead to sustainable urban design. The location, design, and functionality of elements and social activities can significantly impact the mental image, influencing comfort, security, and belonging.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Livability, as a concept and approach, aims to reduce environmental, economic, and social problems in cities and communities based on their needs and capacities. This broad concept encompasses a variety of meanings in terms of physical, socio-cultural, economic, and environmental dimensions, both subjectively and objectively. Therefore, ensuring livability standards in the urban fabric is of considerable importance and necessity. The present study seeks to provide a basic understanding of the livability status in the city of Kashan.
METHODS: To achieve this goal, employing a library method and a researcher-made questionnaire tool, 384 residents from seven old and five new neighborhoods were evaluated using a stratified (simple random) sampling method. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software one-sample t-test analysis and structural equation modeling.
FINDINGS: The results showed that the livability status in the new districts was better than the livability in the old ones. The findings reveal that overall livability in Kashan falls short of the desired average, with economic, cultural, and social aspects scoring the lowest. Environmental quality, on the other hand, was assessed as satisfactory. When comparing livability across old and new districts, the study found that newer districts have a higher overall livability compared to older ones. To further understand the factors influencing livability, the study prioritized the six dimensions of livability: infrastructure, politics, economy, environment, society, and culture. The economic factor emerged as the most influential, followed by social and infrastructural factors. Within the economic factor, job opportunities were identified as the most impactful aspect, while social cohesion and physical infrastructure held the greatest importance within the social and infrastructural factors, respectively.
CONCLUSION: Importantly, the study highlights the role of effective urban management in enhancing livability, particularly in addressing economic disparities, fostering social inclusion, and improving infrastructure. Strategic interventions, such as targeted economic development policies, community engagement programs, and infrastructure investments, are essential for enhancing Kashan’s livability and quality of life.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Urban sustainability is a concept that focuses on creating cities that can meet the existing residents’ requirements without compromising future generations’ capabilities to fulfill their needs. This approach requires comprehensive and integrated urban planning, development, and management. The current research was conducted to design an urban sustainability model, emphasizing new technologies.
METHODS: Based on the nature of the data, the research method was qualitative and exploratory; the theme analysis method was used to analyze the data. In this study, we conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews using the 5w1h technique on a sample of 13 individuals, including managers, academic staff, specialists, and experts of the 5th district from Tehran Municipality, to gather data.  This research was done during the fall and winter of 1402. The criteria for selecting experts include: having at least seven years of useful work experience in Tehran Municipality and relative knowledge of urban sustainability.
FINDINGS: The present research identified five main themes, including social, economic, environmental, technological, and managerial. Two sub-themes (social equality and quality of life in the city) were identified for the social dimension. Also, three sub-themes (economic growth, affordability, and access to financial matters) were identified for the economic dimension. Also, three sub-themes (sustainable transportation, sustainable service, and sustainable energy) were considered for the environmental dimension. Three sub-themes (artificial intelligence capabilities, geographical information systems capabilities, and green technology) have been considered for the technology dimension. Finally, three sub-themes (sustainable strategy, human resource planning, and urban marketing) were stated for the management dimension. A total of 14 sub-themes and 48 codes were identified.
CONCLUSION: By integrating innovative solutions, such as smart grids, green infrastructure, and renewable energy sources, urban areas can become more sustainable and adapt to urban sustainability challenges. Policymakers, planners, and designers must prioritize the implementation of these technologies to build a sustainable future for all residents of urban environments.

Abstract ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest urban center, is experiencing rapid urbanization, which, combined with a growing student population, has led to an increased demand for student housing. This study aims to assess the current state of student housing in Ho Chi Minh City, focusing on the gap between housing supply and demand in the context of the city’s urban development and sustainability goals.
METHODS: A mixed-methods approach was utilized to analyze the student housing landscape in Ho Chi Minh City. Qualitative data were obtained through secondary document analysis, including a review of scholarly articles, government reports, and statistical data. Quantitative data were collected via an online survey of 88 first- and second-year students at the Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education, designed to capture a broad range of housing experiences and preferences. This comprehensive approach allowed for a thorough understanding of the needs and challenges associated with student housing in the city.
FINDINGS: The analysis revealed that 51.1% of students preferred renting rooms, while 48.9% chose to stay in university dormitories. A significant portion of students (44.3%) spent less than 1 million VND per month on housing, often sharing with 2-4 roommates to reduce costs. The survey indicated that students primarily relied on social media (61.4%) and referrals (53.4%) for finding housing. Issues of security and safety were highlighted, with only 45.5% of dormitory residents and 31.8% of off-campus residents reporting satisfaction with their housing security and safety.
CONCLUSION: The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners in addressing the student housing shortage in Ho Chi Minh City. The study emphasizes the need to integrate sustainable practices into housing development, such as implementing green building standards and enhancing safety measures. Encouraging partnerships between universities, government bodies, and private developers is crucial for creating sustainable, affordable, and secure housing solutions that meet the needs of the growing student population amidst the city’s ongoing urban expansion.
 

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The strategic choice of where to locate a hydropower plant affects both the facility's financial performance and the long-term sustainable growth of the surrounding area. This study aims to evaluate the accurate location planning of power plant establishment for electricity production in western Mazandaran.
METHODS: The Analytical Hierarchy Process is used to assess feasibility, identify the optimal location, and determine the most suitable type of green energy plant. Cost analysis is also conducted to identify the location minimizing energy consumption and associated risks. Finally, recommendations for the most suitable location are presented. Based on this, 6 cities located in the west of Mazandaran province have been selected as case studies. The research was conducted between 2020 and 2023. This research involved preparing a topographic map and using software to determine green locations for electricity production in western Mazandaran, based on a 15-year return period. A comparison is made between the electricity generation system from green energy and the electricity generation system from fossil sources. This comparison examines net production cost, sensitivity analysis, and environmental pollution for both green and fossil fuel systems. The feasibility and effectiveness of a green energy system are then evaluated based on geographical conditions and year-round electricity consumption profiles. Finally, using the Analytical Hierarchy Process hierarchical analysis results, we identify the most optimal location for equipment installation, considering economic efficiency, geographical conditions, and year-round electricity consumption.
FINDINGS: The findings reveal that downstream areas with a low slope are best suited for green and sustainable energy production due to their hydrological characteristics and potential for a sustainable supply chain. While eastern regions have high hydropower potential, construction costs are also high. The total cost for a green and sustainable power plant is 2.2 billion Tomans, while sustainable and uneconomical options cost 14 billion Tomans and 24.3 billion Tomans, respectively. Finally, to propose optimal locations for green and sustainable power plants, three precise coordinates for points A, B, and C have been identified.
CONCLUSION: This study identifies 40 potential locations for green and sustainable power plants, with additional locations identified for sustainable and non-economic options. Cost and time comparisons show significant advantages for green and sustainable plants. Three specific locations (A, B, and C) with precise coordinates are recommended for further development. This research concluded that eastern areas in the west of Mazandaran, particularly near rivers, are generally well-suited for constructing hydropower plants.

Abstract ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Supervisory activities and interactions with employees affect employee performance. Moreover, every organization tries to enhance the supervisor's supportive behavior in the work environment. Consequently, the main aim of this study is “to determine the impact of organizational work-family culture on the family-supportive supervisor behavior of employees in Sri Lanka's footwear industry”. Based on a thorough review of existing literature and industry challenges, the study identifies organizational work-family culture as the independent variable and family-supportive supervisory behavior as the dependent variable.
METHODS: The study sampled 377 employees from a population of 20,000 footwear workers in Sri Lanka. Adopting a positivist research philosophy, the study grounded in existing knowledge, is set to achieve its aims and framework. A quantitative research approach was employed for both data collection and analysis, utilizing deductive methods to systematically investigate the research objectives. A survey research study was conducted and the data were gathered from respondents within a defined cross-sectional period, ensuring a broad representation of the target population.
FINDINGS: The study found that the supportive supervisory behavior of employees in Sri Lanka's footwear sector was influenced by organizational family culture as 52% of the Organizational Work-Family Culture of employees working in the Sri Lankan footwear industry.
CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that if the organization has a better working environment, the supervisors in the working environment help their employees manage their family responsibilities over work responsibilities. Thus, companies should create an employee recognition program, accept, and use employee feedback, and be flexible to improve supervisors' family-supportive behavior.

Abstract In traditional participatory urban processes, effective collaboration among designers, citizens, and urban managers is often hindered by inadequate environmental visualization, inefficient communication tools, and limited appeal. These challenges, particularly related to time, cost, and the difficulty of attracting diverse participants, have prompted researchers to explore alternative tools and technologies to enhance citizen involvement. Virtual Reality modeling has emerged as a promising technology for urban design, planning, and management, offering improved ways to visualize spaces, develop creative ideas, and support the realization of urban policies. This research is qualitative and developmental in purpose, and it is classified as a review study with an interpretive perspective. The methods employed include documentary analysis and case studies, with data collected from documents, library resources, and relevant articles in this field. The study draws on theoretical frameworks such as Arnstein’s Ladder of Citizen Participation and Healey’s Collaborative Planning Theory to examine Virtual Reality's potential in participatory processes. The study addresses the limitations of traditional participatory methods, highlighting how Virtual Reality technology can facilitate more accessible, inclusive, and efficient urban policymaking processes. Despite technological limitations, physical and psychological constraints, ethical concerns, and issues related to privacy and legal matters, the findings indicate that virtual Reality offers significant potential in participatory urban processes. By providing immersive simulations, virtual Reality can improve transparency, enhance stakeholder collaboration, and facilitate informed decision-making in urban planning. The technology's ability to engage diverse demographic groups, particularly those reluctant to engage in traditional methods, shows promise for making urban policy discussions more interactive and understandable. Virtual Reality presents a valuable tool for overcoming the limitations of conventional participatory processes and holds promise for enhancing urban policymaking. The study identifies several avenues for future exploration, including improving accessibility, addressing ethical concerns, and developing hybrid engagement models that integrate Virtual reality with traditional methods. Empirical evaluations of Virtual Reality’s impact on decision-making and stakeholder engagement are also recommended to optimize its application in urban governance. Its potential benefits make it an important area for further exploration of urban planning and participatory governance.