Assessment and Development of a Sustainable Development Strategy for Yasooj City Using the SWOT Model and SPACE Matrix

Abstract

Yasooj, with its rich cultural, historical, and musical heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and a young, educated workforce, is one of Iran's cities with significant potential to become a leading example of sustainable development. However, challenges such as weak urban management, lack of economic development, inadequate infrastructure, and natural constraints hinder its progress. In this context, assessing the current situation and providing solutions to enhance urban management and formulate sustainable development strategies are of great importance.

The objective of this study is to identify the capabilities and challenges of Yasooj's urban management and to develop a strategic vision for sustainable development, based on the SWOT model and the SPACE matrix. This research is applied-developmental in nature and employs a descriptive-analytical research method. The statistical population consists of 40 urban experts, and the required data were collected through field observations, reviews of comprehensive and detailed plans, and questionnaires.

Data analysis was conducted using the SWOT model, which identified the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of Yasooj City. The findings indicate that the final score of the IFE matrix (internal factors of strengths and weaknesses) is 2.10, and the score of the EFE matrix (external factors of opportunities and threats) is 2.37, both of which are significantly below the average score of 2.5. The internal-external (IE) matrix analysis revealed that Yasooj is in a defensive (WT) position, requiring a review of management structures and the formulation of new operational plans.

Additionally, Yasooj's potential in tourism, agriculture, industry, and services has been identified as a key opportunity for sustainable development. To achieve sustainable development in Yasooj, urban management must revisit its structures and plans, focusing on enhancing inter-institutional cooperation and fostering greater citizen participation in decision-making processes.

Utilizing the city's natural, cultural, and social capacities, strengthening academic tourism through Yasooj University, hosting cultural festivals; and supporting agro-tourism are among the proposed solutions. Furthermore, Yasooj should aim to establish itself as a successful model of sustainable urban development by improving infrastructure, enhancing good urban governance, and fostering partnerships with the private sector and civil society.

Step-by-step and participatory planning, along with a thorough review of past strategies and the definition of clear visions, will contribute to achieving this goal. Establishing closer links between academic institutions and urban management will also play a key role in the successful implementation of development strategies.

Keywords: Sustainable Development, Yasooj City, SWOT Model, Urban Management, Tourism.