The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Lab is a vital resource within the Architecture and City Design Department, established in 1998. It serves as a comprehensive teaching, training, and research center for both graduate students and department faculty. The primary objectives of the GIS Lab include:
Education & Training: Equipping students with technical GIS knowledge for careers in various planning fields.
Research Support: Assisting faculty with their research activities.
Community Engagement: Offering regular GIS courses and short courses for both public and private sectors.
Consultancy: Aiming to provide consultancy services for GIS users in the future.
Hardware:
28 Networked Computers: Each with 8GB RAM, 1TB hard drive, and 22" wide LCD monitors.
Software:
ArcGIS 10.x with the extensions:
ArcGIS Pro 3.4 with extensions:
GPS Technology:
6 GPS Receivers: For accurate geographic data collection.
Peripherals:
Large Format Plotters & Scanners
Flatbed Scanners
DeskJet and Laser Color Printers
The lab can accommodate 20 students simultaneously, providing them with access to:
GIS Software
GPS Technology
State-of-the-art Equipment
High-quality Printing and Scanning Peripherals
This well-equipped lab not only facilitates advanced learning and research but also enhances the practical skills of students, preparing them for real-world GIS applications. It's a cornerstone for those aiming to excel in planning fields, supporting both their academic and professional growth.
CRP 514: Introduction to GIS (Semester-based course)
CRP 515: Advanced Topics in GIS (Semester-based course)
CRP 507 Computer-aided Planning
Dr. Baqer Al-Ramadan | GIS Unit Coordinator
Mohammed Raziuddin | GIS Specialist
The proposed lab holds immense potential for advancing interdisciplinary research on Smart Cities, Urban Sustainability, and related fields. Here's a detailed overview:
Interdisciplinary Research: Facilitate collaborative research among faculty members across various disciplines.
Consultation and Funded Projects: Serve as a platform for research and consultancy in funded projects focused on Smart Cities and Urban Sustainability in Saudi Arabia.
Graduate Programs: Support future graduate programs at the Architecture and City Design Department.
Research Activities: Enable cutting-edge research that addresses the pressing challenges and opportunities in urban environments.
Future Collaborations: Foster collaborations with other academic institutions, industry partners, and government agencies.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Provide advanced tools and resources that support innovative research and practical applications.
Interdisciplinary Expertise: Leverage the diverse expertise of faculty members to tackle complex urban issues from multiple perspectives.
Sustainable Urban Development: Contribute to the development of sustainable and resilient urban environments.
Smart Cities: Drive the adoption and integration of smart technologies to improve urban living and infrastructure.
Educational Excellence: Enhance the educational experience for graduate students through hands-on research opportunities and exposure to real-world projects.
By establishing this lab, the ACD department aims to create a vibrant research ecosystem that addresses urban challenges and promotes sustainable development in Saudi Arabia. It will not only advance academic knowledge but also provide practical solutions that benefit society.
This initiative aligns perfectly with the broader goals of fostering innovation, sustainability, and excellence in urban planning and development.
The administrative space is a common secretarial area for all department chairmen in CDB. It accommodates a waiting area for visitors (e.g., students, faculty, and guests). The space is located in Building 19 (4th floor).
The faculty meeting room is an informal meeting space. It is equipped with a large meeting table and a smart interactive screen. The room is located in Building 19 (4th floor).
The faculty lounge is a quiet place for faculty members to relax and meet. The lounge is located in Building 19 (4th floor).
A typical faculty office can accommodate a large working table, file cabinets, book shelves, and visitors chairs. Offices are located in Building 19 (3rd and 4th floor).
The college has lounges and study rooms for graduate students to enable for a quiet and private environment for the students. These rooms are located in Building 19 (4th floor).
The CDB has multiple classes and lecture rooms in different capacities and arrangements. All them are located Building 19 (4th floor).
The reproduction center is located in Building 19 (2nd floor). It services the copying and printing needs of the college. The center is equipped with two high volume copiers; a Nashuatec 4561 copier and a Konica 331 copier. The center also has a large format copier capable of producing up to A2 and a Xerox reproduction machine capable of very large format reproductions. The center has Binding equipment, light table and cutters. Also attached to the reproduction center is also the material store of the college. This is where all the graphic materials and supplies of the college are kept and supplied to faculty and students. The store supports the design and other academic activities of the college.
The main responsibility of the maintenance team is to ensure that everything runs smoothly at our building. Their office is located in Building 19 (2nd floor).
The CDB has multiple storage spaces all located in Building 19 (2nd floor).