On-line Abstracts

Fedra, K. (1995)

From Spatial Data to Spatial Information: GIS, Environmental Models and Expert Systems. In: From Research to Application through Cooperation. Proceedings Volume 1 - Stream 1,2 and 3. Proceedings of Joint European Conference and Exhibition on Geographical Information. Netherlands Congress Centre The Hague. AKM Messen AG. March 26-31, 1995. pp. 264-278.

Abstract

Geographical information systems are emerging as a leading technology and common tool in may areas of application. Environmental planning and management has an obvious spatial dimension and uses complex models and methods of assessment. It is thus one of the most challenging application domains for GIS technology.

Environmental planning requires the integration of large volumes of often disparate and multi-format information from numerous sources; the analysis of this information with complex tools and models for assessment and evaluation; and effective methods of communication of results that also allow broad, interactive participation in the planning, assessment, and decision making process.

Information systems based on the integration of GIS with data base management, remote sensing and image processing, simulation and optimization models, expert systems, and decision support tools, provide some of the tools to effectively support environmental planning and management. Geographical information systems as a central component of environmental information systems play an important role in the transformation of large volumes of data into useful information. They provide a common organizational framework through georeferencing information, an easily understandable presentation style in the form of topical maps, and the possibility of linking dynamic models and expert systems for complex tasks of analysis and assessment.