Rappresentare il territorio oltre la semplificazione. La centralità della componente umana

The growing reliance on computational models and predictive algorithms has simplified the complexity of urban environments, transforming cities into measurable systems. This rationalist and deterministic approach proves insufficient in capturing the emotional and perceptual dimensions that define the human experience of urban space. The paper proposes overcoming this simplified view by integrating the human factor into urban representation through the active involvement of citizens in data collection and co-creation of territorial knowledge. To this end, it suggests employing tools typically used in user experience (UX) design, such as Empathy Map, User Journey Map, and User Experience Map, to explore citizens' perceptions and emotions in relation to their urban environment. The proposed approach aims to develop a vision in which citizens are seen as central actors in the governance and transformation processes of urban space. Experimenting with these methodologies within Living Labs offers an opportunity to create critical and participatory mapping, capable of integrating physical, social, and emotional dimensions into the design and management of the city.