Aim/PurposeThe purpose of this study is to design, develop, and evaluate the Irenea Estate Subdivision Site Interactive Mapping System (i-SIMS), a web-based GIS application that enhances spatial data management and navigation within residential subdivisions, while contributing to scholarly discourse on GIS applications in human–computer interaction (HCI) and urban planning.

BackgroundGeographic Information Systems (GIS) are widely recognized as critical tools for managing spatial data across various domains; however, residential subdivisions often lack integrated systems that combine navigation, property information, and community planning support. This study addresses that gap by introducing i-SIMS as a model that bridges practical community needs with academic inquiry in GIS-based urban informatics.

MethodologyA systems development approach was applied, incorporating both backend GIS integration and front-end interactive design principles. Real-time data updating mechanisms were implemented to maintain accuracy. System evaluation employed user testing with 40 residents, focusing on usability, efficiency, and information accessibility, which was analyzed through quantitative and qualitative measures.

ContributionThis research advances the academic discussion on the intersection of GIS and HCI by demonstrating how interactive mapping systems can be tailored for micro-urban contexts, such as subdivisions. The study provides a framework for integrating real-time GIS functionalities into web applications, offering insights applicable to both community-based GIS design and urban planning research.

FindingsUser testing results indicated a mean satisfaction rating of 4.6 out of 5 and a 32% reduction in task completion time for navigation-related activities compared to existing methods. These outcomes highlight i-SIMS’s effectiveness in improving usability, spatial awareness, and accessibility of property information.

Recommendations for PractitionersUrban planners, developers, and system designers should adopt GIS-based interactive platforms, such as i-SIMS, to enhance property management, resident navigation, and transparency in decision-making within residential communities.

Recommendation for ResearchersFuture research should investigate the integration of advanced technologies, such as machine learning, to enable predictive mapping and behavioral insights, thereby extending the applications of GIS in urban informatics.

Impact on Societyi-SIMS strengthens transparency and efficiency in residential communities by providing residents and developers with improved access to accurate spatial information. This contributes to smarter navigation, more informed property-related decisions, and enhanced community engagement.

Future ResearchFurther work could explore the use of augmented reality (AR) for immersive navigation, as well as advanced data analytics for real-time decision support in both residential and broader urban contexts.