Within a geographic information system (GIS), not only is the data important, but also the structure of the data. The structure of the data determines how the data and relationships among data are to be stored, retrieved, and utilized. This structure and the environment in which it is organized, with particular reference to spatial data, is referred to as a spatial data architecture (SDA). Spatial database management systems utilize an SDA to implement their storage and management structures for spatial data. In fact, an SDA may involve multiple databases accessible via desktop, intranet, and Internet applications.

Why a Spatial Data Architecture?

Consider the construction of a building. There will be plenty of different types of materials from which the construction can take place, such as bricks, wood, ...

  • Loading...
locked icon

Sign in to access this content

Get a 30 day FREE TRIAL

  • Watch videos from a variety of sources bringing classroom topics to life
  • Read modern, diverse business cases
  • Explore hundreds of books and reference titles