Space syntax: standardised integration measures and some simulations

Central to the space syntax method (a technique for morphological analysis of urban areas) is the concept of integration. Unfortunately, the integration values are not independent of the size of urban areas. Consequently it is difficult to compare areas of different size, implying a need for standardisation of integration measures.In this paper three such standardised integration measures are discussed. The properties of these measures are simulated for differently sized urban areas, with the assumption of a spatial structure with morphological constants. The results of these simulations suggest that a measure based on a comparison with an 'axial grid' has most desirable properties. Comments regarding the interpretation and use of the chosen standardised integration measure are provided.