Developing Spatial Data Infrastructures : From Concept to Reality

Developing Spatial Data Infrastructures: from Concept to Reality provides an overview of SDI policies, concepts, and standards and practices associated with the design, implementation, and operation of an SDI. It identifies key factors, such as socio-political, economic, and cultural issues that influence the success of SDI initiatives and introduces the concept of an SDI hierarchy based on hierarchical spatial reasoning. It builds on an International Symposium on Spatial Data Infrastructure held in Melbourne by presenting a series of alternative long-term visions and identifying many of the forces for change. Both professionals and students will find this book useful.

Expert perspectives on SDI theory and practice

The spatial data infrastructure (SDI) concept continues to evolve and become an increasingly important element of the infrastructure that supports economic development, environmental management, and social stability. Because of its dynamic and complex nature, however, it remains a fuzzy concept to many, and depending on their needs and circumstances, practitioners, researchers, and governments adopt different views of it.

Developing Spatial Data Infrastructures: from Concept to Reality makes a timely contribution to the theory and practice of SDIs and breaks new ground in improving understanding of their relevance and value. It provides expert overviews of policies, concepts, standards, and practices associated with the design, implementation, and operation of SDIs. It introduces the concept of an SDI Hierarchy based on Hierarchical Spatial Reasoning, sets out the similarities and differences between SDIs operating within and between different jurisdictions, and identifies factors key to the success of SDI initiatives.

Built on key contributions to the International Symposium on Spatial Data Infrastructure held in Melbourne in November 2001, this book is the first of its kind to provide address both the theoretical and practical aspects of developing appropriate SDIs. It offers unique, detailed discussions on the challenges and direction of future SDI development and thus provides an outstanding resource for those involved in building and maintaining SDIs and for GIS professionals and students.