Premium Essay

Geographic Information Systems

In:

Submitted By Michel961
Words 4100
Pages 17
An Extended Entity-Relationship Model for Geographic Applications * Thanasis Hadzilacos Computer Technology Institute, University of Patras Box 1122, GR-26110, Patras, Greece thh@cti.gr Nectaria Tryfona National Center for Geographic Information and Analysis Univ. of Maine, Orono, ME 04469-5711, U.S.A nectaria@spatial.maine.edu Abstract. A special-purpose extension of the EntityRelationship model for the needs of conceptual modeling of geographic applications, called the Geo-ER Model, is presented. Handling properties associated to objects not because of the objects’ nature but because of the objects’ position, calls for dealing -at the semantic modeling levelwith space, location and dimensionality of objects, spatial relationships, space-depending attributes, and scale and generalization of representations. In order to accomplish this in the framework of ER and its derivatives, we introduce special entity sets, relationships, and add new constructs. The rationale as well as examples of usage of the Geo-ER model from actual projects are presented. 1. Introduction Is everybody special or are we all alike? Should we develop applications according to a special methodology for each class of applications, such as medical, business process and geographic, or should we use a single blanket approach for all? Personal preferences and philosophical discussions aside, it does seem that the general purpose side has won most battles in computer science, from hardware to programming languages to relational data models. On the other hand, successful special-purpose tools do exist, from signal processors to web browsers, and in any special case the decision is an engineering one, balancing the additional productivity stemmed from the special crafted tool versus the extra effort of developing, disseminating and learning how to use one. One successful method for handling the general

Similar Documents

Premium Essay

Geographic Information Systems (Gis)

...The term Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a term used to refer to a system installed in a computer capable of manipulating, assembling, displaying and storing information that has been geographically referenced. Large volumes of data are mapped, analyzed and modeled using a single database depending on their locations. In short, the software gives one power to create maps. Information such latitudes, longitudes, elevations and ZIP codes are fed into the system and the results can be used to determine whether and climate patterns of different regions (Global Geographic Information Systems, 2007). Different organizations use GIS generated data to seek information regarding specific areas of interest they are interested in. Organizations such as the World Health Organization used the software to map different areas. For instance, GIS is used to map areas that have been struck by polio. The World Health Organization which is a world-wide specialized agency also employs GIS in its management. The organization was established in the year 1948 and it has its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. It is part of United Nation and its major role is to deal with international public health. The organization covers a large geographical area and hence the need to use a specialized system to monitor its activities. The organization has employed the GIS to help eradicate some of its most annoying challenges; polio. The fight against olio is estimated to have a 99% failure rate, but with...

Words: 1091 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Geographic Information Systems (Gis) in Healthcare

...Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in Healthcare According to the information found on the book and in the text provided for the assignment GSI combines layers of geographically referenced information about the Earth surface. GSI does this by collecting data, which is stored in a database that is then analyzed and used to create a visual representation of data in the form of a map. This process can be used in a lot of different fields of profession from catching criminals to medical and emergency management. By examining geographical healthcare data, hospital and public health officials are able to plan strategically to increase accessibility to services, prevent future outbreaks, and to make finer decisions for patients. Every patient in healthcare needs an examination, diagnosis, and treatment. Clinic and hospital officials and practitioners need to be aware and understanding of their nearby communities because that is where most of their patients are. GSI can help decide where to place new facilities, where and when to intervene, how to improve the quality of care as well as increasing accessibility of services, and most importantly what types of services to emphasize., this is can be labeled as interactive mapping and strategic planning. GSI is a huge asset to the public health and nursing management communities. Through the use of this process, a nurse case manager can locate the surrounding community resources that are in proximity to their patients. Some of these...

Words: 508 - Pages: 3

Free Essay

Mapping of Javan Gibbon Habitat Suitability (Hylobates Moloch Audebert, 1798) in Gunung Tilu Protected Area Kabupaten Bandung with Geographic Information System Application

...Introduction Javan gibbon is an endemic species in West Java and it is categorized as endangered species now (IUCN, 2008). Javan gibbon habitat is sentralized in lowland forest and mountain forest, one of that are situated at Gunung Tilu Protected Area. However the area has been facing many problems which resulted from human activites such as stealing the forest products, and the existence of tea plantation in this protected area. The research objectives is to develop the habitat suitability map of Javan gibbon in Gunung Tilu Protected Area (GTPA) utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS). Method Javan gibbon habitat suitability mapping was initiated by collection the spatial and attribute data, such as digital map, data survey, and literature. This mapping was based on some habitat variable which determine the Javan gibbon habitat suitability, namely Leaf Area Index (LAI), accesibility (elevation and slope), and distance to road. Variables then were analyzed with GIS and produced thematic map for each variable. Javan gibbon distribution survey data in GTPA by KONUS (Konservasi Alam Nusantara) was used for determine the weight value of habitat variable using a Principal Componenet Analysis (PCA). Result of PCA were utilized as weight to determine Javan gibbon habitat suitability model. Furthermore, the model analyzed by using scoring and overlay methode. Result and disscussion The habitat suitability model: IKH = (2,154xFLAI) + (2,154xFjalan) + (1,044xFtinggi)...

Words: 316 - Pages: 2

Free Essay

Geographic Information System

...SURVEY FOLIO BY ROLAND OULSOLA OLUWAFEMI SUBMITTED TO SURVEYORS COUNCIL OF NIGERIA (SURCON) (Established by decree No. 44 of 1989: CAP 425 LFN 1990) IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE REGISTRATION AS A SURVEYOR JULY, 2013 DEDICATTION I dedicate this work to the Almighty God. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS My Profound acknowledgement towards this folio greatly goes to my supervisor, Surv. Paul Oluwaseun Ifekoya,mnis for standing by me through the thick and thin period by giving me the support and opportunity to work with him to benefit from his wealth of wisdom and experiences, no amount of words I can use to show my appreciation to you, because am really grateful. My unreserved gratitude goes to my parents for their prayers, words of wisdom and encouragement which has really been contributing to my success in life. Also, to my brothers and sister, you had really encouraged me to keep going against all odds. I will also use this medium to express gratitude to all my friends and labourers who worked with me in the course of executing all the projects. Finally, I cannot do without appreciating my colleague Ailoyafen Oluwatosin, Siedu Musa Danladi and others who assisted me in one way or the other. God will reward each and every one of you greatly. And Lastly I will never forget to mention Mrs Chioma Ifekoya, Ini Ifekoya and Imisi Ifekoya your prayers and kindness has seen me through...

Words: 825 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Nt1310 Unit 1 Assignment

...October 19, 2014 Geographic Information Systems I chose Geographic Information System (GIS) and Internet Search Engines as my Information Technology related Concept. With all of the controversy surrounding ‘Facebook Messenger’ these past few weeks, I thought, “what better topic to write about” involving such an immense Information System (IS). Apparently, there are quite a few issues with an invasion of privacy that Internet users are not very happy with Facebook at all and have started a movement to delete Messenger from their smartphones. When using Internet Search Engines on smartphones there are agreements that pop up asking for your exact location. I want to take a further look inside Geographic Information Systems and Internet Search Engines. Gathering as much research as possible I am going to figure out just how much of our privacy is in fact being invaded. How much information does a (GIS), how Internet Search Engines sift through our personal information, how they are maintained and controlled, is our information kept in a safe place and just how much do they know? Geographic...

Words: 2460 - Pages: 10

Free Essay

Expanded Applications of Gis/Gps

...first geological tools used to describe the planet were maps and over the years they have become increasingly detailed and interactive. The current geological tools incorporate maps and computer technologies known as GIS and GPS. Continuously, GIS stands for geographic information systems, and it combines visual data concerning information about shapes, sizes, and locations that can be analyzed. The power of a GIS is its ability to analyze location, features or objects (such as a stream), and feature characteristics (such as water quality, direction of flow), in relation to other locations, features, and their characteristics (National Park Service US Department of Interior, n.d.). GPS is defined as a global positioning system using satellites to accurately pinpoint locations and give directions to other locations by using satellites that orbit the earth. With this in mind, a combination of these two tools help to give a 3d image of the earth and bring all its geological features to life but most importantly they can be used to analyze information to help improve many areas of concern about the planet. For example, if someone worked for the National Park Service a modeling of landscapes can give us valuable information about a parks ecosystem or historical setting, and help us visualize how it will look in the future under various management strategies (National Park Service Department of Interior, n.d.). These geographical tools can be used to monitor and maintain care of...

Words: 513 - Pages: 3

Free Essay

Understand Gis/Gps

...Understand GIS/GPS Maryalice Anderson Feb. 29, 2016 Marquette University Understand GIS/GPS Geographic Information System (GIS), is defined in our text as “a computer system used to organize, store, analyze, and display geographic information. The Global Positioning System (GPS) is defined in our text as, a navigational tool consisting of a fleet of satellites orbiting Earth, broadcasting digital codes, and a portable receiver that can receive those codes and determine its location” (Dahlman & Renwick, 2015, Chapter 1). GIS has been called a way to learn the geographic reasoning for anything. We can use the GPS system to find any place anywhere on this earth. GPS operates in real-time, 24 hours per day. Using GIS/GPS Currently consisting of approximately 24 satellites, GPS also uses ground stations to match information and use that information as reference points of a location that is accurate to within a couple of yards. GPS was formally used strictly for the military. Now it is used in and by everything. From the cell phone to automobiles, boats and computers. GIS makes use of computer software to pass along a location on earth. The components or parts that make GIS work consist of three categories. The computer and its software, real time data, and people that are trained to use the information. The data is digitized and has been created by government or commercial operations that they make freely available in most cases. According...

Words: 774 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Helth Care

...in two of the examples? (~200 words) Example 1: According to the first video, in Sierra Leon, the World Vision Center had collected a lot of data on public health entities by “GPS equipment, camera phone and questionnaires.” [1] This data was then uploaded onto the World Visions Online Geographic Information System or GIS. By uploading this data on GIS, it makes the “information easily available to stakeholders”, so they can easily identify potential gaps in service provision. [1] GIS makes it easier for decision makers to make educated choices that will have the greatest influence on healthcare. [1] Example 2: The hospital in Camden uses GIS to “actively seek out sick people and take care of them”. [2] Dr. Jeffrey Benner and his team started to collected “raw billing data from three hospitals in Camden.” [2] This data informed him and his team about the sickest patients and the people that “over utilize” emergency rooms. I was shocked to learn that “20% of the patients were 90% of the costs.” [2] Therefore, because of this information, Dr. Jeffrey Brenner created an outreach team to go around and target the “sickest most complex high-cost patients” in the city. [2] This information will let them know who are the sickest patients and how take care of them. 2. Describe how each of your two selections works in terms of cost, quality and access in healthcare? Do the examples work equally well for the applications you selected? (~200 words). 1. Using GIS to map Health...

Words: 535 - Pages: 3

Free Essay

Implementing Gis

...also tries to identify the differences which may be required in the system if the blueprint is to be used for other states. The factors affecting these differences would also be identified and the expected value realizations for other states as compared to the state of Arkansas. Expanding Business Intelligence to GISs Governments around the world have lots of location based data which is very important for managing the state and serving the citizens. Having all this data in physical formats makes it very difficult to manage and work efficiently. GIS systems are invcreasingly being used to convery the location based data into digital formats. A lot of different government agencies require location based data which is useful to their field area. Having multiple government agencies using different sets of location based data can make colloobration very difficult and time consuming. Integrating the location based data from various government agencies into a single data warehouse can go a long way in helping not only government agencies but also other businesses to take advantage from it. "Geographic information is the key to better decision-making; just about everything a community, business, or public agency does, whether in day-to-day operations or long-term planning, is related to its geography." (Lennox, 2012). Using Arkansas blueprint Arkansas's GeoStar is the first statewide enterprise GIS system which is publicly assessible and supports multiple vendors which helps...

Words: 1640 - Pages: 7

Free Essay

Sangis

...SanGIS www.SanGIS.org The San Diego Geographic Information Source (SanGIS) is responsible for maintaining a regional geographic information system landbase and data warehouse for the city and county of San Diego. The main function of this GIS is to organize and structure shared geographic data and all automated systems that use that data. The data warehouse maintains several hundred layers of data regarding lots, parcels, roads, bridges, additions, deletions, and updates of county land as well as private land. The main purpose of the application is to create a centralized database pertaining only to the city and county of San Diego. What this does, is contractors, landscapers, and essentially anyone else who is inquiring about data regarding environmental or geographic information, can pay to access the system. For instance, by cooperating with other local agencies, SanGIS can uphold the integrity of geographic information with accuracy and precision for any party that is interested in statistical information, data extractions, data sharing, etc. For an example query of the application, someone could inquire on where the closest fire stations, schools, public libraries, police stations, etc. are, using an interactive map. There are multiple filters to the interactive map; a base map that shows roads, county lines, parcels, and city lines. A second filter to the interactive map is called a dynamic filter. The dynamic filter can be turned on and off by the user...

Words: 449 - Pages: 2

Premium Essay

Presentation

...science and technology dealing with the structure and character of spatial information, its capture, its classification and qualification, its storage, processing, portrayal and dissemination, including the infrastructure necessary to secure optimal use of this information"[1] or "the art, science or technology dealing with the acquisition, storage, processing production, presentation and dissemination of geoinformation".[2] Geomatics is a similarly used term which encompasses geoinformatics, but geomatics focuses more so on surveying. Geoinformatics has at its core the technologies supporting the processes of acquiring, analyzing and visualizing spatial data. Both geomatics and geoinformatics include and rely heavily upon the theory and practical implications of geodesy. Geography and earth science increasingly rely on digital spatial data acquired from remotely sensed images analyzed by geographical information systems (GIS) and visualized on paper or the computer screen.[3] Geoinformatics combines geospatial analysis and modeling, development of geospatial databases, information systems design, human-computer interaction and both wired and wireless networking technologies. Geoinformatics uses geocomputation and geovisualization for analyzing geoinformation. Geoinformatics Research Research in this field is used to support global and local environmental, energy and security programs. The Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIST) Group of Oak Ridge National Laboratory are...

Words: 473 - Pages: 2

Free Essay

Blue Print

...InPrint Staff: Editor in Chief: Tom Palizzi Managing Editor: Kaye Ryser Associate Editor: Lindsay Ferguson Copy Editor: Reece Hanzon Graphic Design: Kent Hepworth Graphic Design: Rachel Haslam Advertising: Cindy Curletti Subscription: To subscribe, change your address, or cancel your subscription: inprint@cityworks.com Contact Us: Tel: 801-523-2751 Email: info@cityworks.com Archives available at: www.cityworks.com Azteca Systems Inc. 11075 South State Street, Suite 24 Sandy, UT 84070 801-523-2751 www.cityworks.com e hear the word scalability used extensively to describe today’s technology. For all intents and purposes, it is typically used to illustrate a solution’s ability to accommodate a variety of needs and preferences. Most software starts as a solution to a specific problem or need—a defined application that performs a task or process. This was the case in 1996, when Azteca Systems developed an application to manage work associated with utility networks—water and wastewater systems. While work management applications already existed, the Azteca Systems’ solution, Pipeworks, was based on a new and innovative approach. Pipeworks began as a GIS-based...

Words: 16329 - Pages: 66

Premium Essay

Mkt 310 Wk 6 Quiz 4 Chapter 9 & 10

...activitymode.com/product/mkt-310-wk-6-quiz-4-chapter-9-10/ Contact us at: SUPPORT@ACTIVITYMODE.COM MKT 310 WK 6 QUIZ 4 CHAPTER 9 & 10 MKT 310 WK 6 Quiz 4 Chapter 9,10 1) The least flexible element of a retailer's strategy mix is ________. A) merchandise assortment B) human resources C) pricing D) location 2) The first step in choosing a store location is to ________. A) determine whether to locate as an isolated store, in an unplanned business district, or in a planned shopping center B) evaluate alternate geographic (trading areas) in terms of the characteristics of residents and existing retailers C) select the general isolated business district or planned shopping-center location D) analyze alternate sites contained in the specified retail location type 3) A trading area can best be defined as ________. A) those competitive stores that interchange customers B) stores that are located in the same shopping center or district C) a geographic area containing customers of a particular firm or group of firms for specific goods and services D) a designation of a retail area by the U.S. Census Bureau 4) A major benefit of a trading-area analysis is that it allows a retailer to determine ________. A) the demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of consumers B) a store's image C) the psychographics of shoppers versus nonshoppers D) the response of shoppers to promotional pricing 5) A major benefit of a thorough trading-area analysis is that it allows a...

Words: 2308 - Pages: 10

Free Essay

Local Health Depratments Play a Central Function in Ensuring Important Public Health Services.

...Introduction Local health departments (LHDs) play a central function in ensuring important public health services. Geographic information system (GIS) technology offers shows potential resources for LHDs to recognize geographic gaps connecting areas of necessitate and the reach of public health services. They explored how great LHDs possibly will better bring up to date planning and investments by using GIS based methodologies to bring into line community needs and health outcomes with public health programs. They presented a framework to drive LHDs in identifying and addressing gaps or mismatches in services or health outcomes. Methods These researchers studied four large health departments, two in California and two in Florida, interviewing key informants from all levels of the organization. They identified five critical factors that enable health departments to use GIS methods to inform service planning: Priority setting-some type of formalized strategic planning activity including traditional health assessments, community-driven planning processes and, in some cases, political mandates. Planning with a geographic focus—identify a purpose for mapping and put program planning and service provision questions into a geographic context. Access to geo-enabled data-availability of population health data and health department service and program data. Resources and technical capacity-resources needed include specialized but widely available GIS software, data management or statistical...

Words: 1326 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

Carbon Methodology

...Office of Information Technology and Communications Department Of Geographic Information System BSOS 386 Section: 0401 Experiential Learning My internship is with the Geographic Information System Department of the Office of Information Technology and Communication of Prince George's County government. The OITC deals with any technology related issues in the county. The Geographic Information System Department assists all the other county agencies and some private companies in their need of Geographic services. The department is relatively small compared to the work load.  In the previous years there used to be many people but as the year went by, and the economic crisis, it has been reduced to five including me. However we managed to get the job done as the only department in charge of assisting all county agencies with Geographic Information services.  In fact most agencies have their own Geographic Information System divisions, although they lack technology resources and expertise in the use of the software. Therefore our tasks is to advise and most of the time, to correct them in the creation and updating of map layers. We also manage their geographic database to make it available for all agencies in the entire county. My supervisor, Mr. Patrick Callahan is the director of the department. He overlooks every project that are undergoing in the department and offers assistance to the other agencies. He also is an expert Geographic Information...

Words: 1493 - Pages: 6