University Campus Physical Development Strategy through the Identification of Effective Visual Indicators; Case Study: Shiraz University Campus (in Persian)

Purpose: This article aimed to analyze the visual content in university campuses and to introduce influential visual indicators for the improvement and development of these settings. Therefore, to reach a list of effective visual indicators in university campuses, we selected Shiraz University so that we could realize the campus physical development strategy as well as environment productivity. Methodology: The study was applied-descriptive within the broader of survey research paradigm. It was implemented in 2025 using the walking methodology in Landscape in the campus of this university. We collected the data via a mixed-method survey combining four qualitative tools including mental imagery, exploratory observation, photographic documentation, and reflective analysis. Findings: To analyze the data, responses were summarized, interpreted, and coded to identify the corresponding visual indicators. Based on the perceptual nature and spatial adjacency of the indicators, they were then classified into three major categories of factors: objective, subjective, and objective/subjective. As a result, a comprehensive list of potential visual indicators for academic campuses was formulated. Finally, an analytical framework specific to visual indicators has been developed. Originality: A review of the related literature revealed a lack of a specific analytical framework for visual indicators within university campus environments. Therefore, it is essential to develop localized indicators tailored to the environmental context to achieve purposeful and coordinated campus development. Recommendations: The suggestion for future research is to conduct this study on other university campuses to complete and expand the results.