The Spatial Development Framework (SDF) methodology was created to support countries with weak planning systems that are facing rapid urbanisation. Using a series of methods, amongst others, a Matrix of Functions (MoF) and a Spatial Multi-Criteria Evaluation (SMCE), the regional roles and inter-linkages of urban settlements in the study area are explained.

Wickedness of the problem is present, because of the continuing socio-economic changes in a country where rapid urbanisation occurs. Good spatial data is hard to come by and even more difficult to analyse. Stakeholders' goals are divergent.