Evaluating the Efficacy of Agent-Based Modeling in Analyzing Pedestrian Dynamics within the Built Environment: A Comprehensive Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

The dynamics of pedestrian behavior within the built environment represent a multifaceted and evolving field of study, profoundly influenced by shifts in industrial and commercial paradigms. This systematic literature review (SLR) is motivated by the imperative to comprehensively investigate and assess the built environment through the lens of pedestrian modeling, employing advanced modeling tools. While previous scholarship has explored the interplay between the built environment and pedestrian dynamics (PD), there remains a conspicuous gap in research addressing the utilization of agent-based modeling (ABM) tools for a nuanced evaluation of PD within these contexts. The SLR highlights the essential and practical benefits of using ABM to study PD in built environments and combine related theories and practical projects. Beyond theoretical discussions, it emphasizes the real-world contributions of ABM in understanding and visualizing how people behave in urban spaces. It aims to provide deep insights for both researchers and urban planners. By thoroughly examining recent research, it not only explores the practical uses of ABM but also reveals its broad implications for various aspects of pedestrian behavior in built environments. As a result, this SLR becomes a key resource for understanding the crucial role of ABM in studying the complexities of our surroundings. The findings and discussion here highlight ABM’s vital role in bridging the gap between theory and practice, improving our understanding of pedestrian behavior in urban settings. Furthermore, this study outlines promising avenues for future research, thereby fostering continued exploration and innovation in the dynamic realm of pedestrian behavior within built environments.