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The analysis of geographical data

Data rich, technology adequate, theory poor

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Statistical and Scientific Database Management (SSDBM 1988)

Part of the book series: Lecture Notes in Computer Science ((LNCS,volume 339))

Abstract

This paper describes the current and near-future situation in geographical data processing from several viewpoints. It commences with a summary of — so far as is known — user needs in relation to functionality and other characteristics of the necessary software (Geographical Information Systems or GIS). The burgeoning availability of certain types of spatially referenced data is described; the data structures used or developed to date are summarised, together with their advantages and disadvantages. The most powerful uses of GIS — modelling or spatial analysis — are presently rare but one example, based upon Openshaw's Geographical Analysis Machine, is presented; based on experience with this tool and much else, the shortcomings of existing software tools are described and future collaborative research to remedy these shortcomings is outlined.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Birkbeck College, University of London, 7 – 15 Gresse Street, W1P 1PA, London

    David Rhind & Nick Green

  2. Department of Geography, The University, NE1 7RU, Newcastle upon Tyne

    Stan Openshaw

Authors
  1. David Rhind
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  2. Stan Openshaw
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  3. Nick Green
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Maurizio Rafanelli John C. Klensin Per Svensson

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© 1989 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg

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Rhind, D., Openshaw, S., Green, N. (1989). The analysis of geographical data. In: Rafanelli, M., Klensin, J.C., Svensson, P. (eds) Statistical and Scientific Database Management. SSDBM 1988. Lecture Notes in Computer Science, vol 339. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/BFb0027527

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BFb0027527

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  • Print ISBN: 978-3-540-50575-4

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-540-46045-9

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