Planning, Policy, and Implementation Processes of Nation's Gardens in Türkiye: An Analysis of Three Metropolitan Cities from a Decision-Maker Perspective within a Management Science Framework

Abstract

Purpose –The aim of this study was to analyze the views of public officials in decision-making positions who played an active role in the design, planning, and implementation stages of the nation’s gardens in Ankara, Kocaeli, and Trabzon, and to reveal their evaluations regarding the sustainability and functionality of the nation’s gardens. Method –The study was conducted using the interview technique, one of the qualitative research methods and techniques. A multiple-case study design was employed in the research. The sample group was selected using purposive sampling, and a total of 14 decision-makers were included in the study. The collected data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings were limited to the interviews conducted with the decision-makers.

Findings –The findings indicate that, according to the perceptions of the decision-makers, physical and human factors are influential in the planning, design, and implementation processes of the nation’s gardens. The decision-makers stated that the nation’s gardens are predominantly used for social and recreational purposes, that their use intensifies during the summer months, but that they can also be used throughout the year. They also stated that access opportunities are adequate, that needs analyses and feedback mechanisms are utilized in management processes, and that the areas are designed to accommodate different user groups. It was also found that population density, land conditions, and physical geographical characteristics are taken into consideration in the site selection of nation’s gardens, while the decision-makers evaluated these areas as having sufficient capacity to function as assembly areas following disasters. However, these findings reflect the evaluations and perceptions of the decision-makers participating in the study rather than the objective conditions of the nation’s gardens.

Conclusion –It has been understood from participant statements that, while the design criteria outlined in the "Public Garden Guide" are generally taken into account when planning public gardens, these criteria may be subject to modification due to the influence of geographical factors.