Geographic Information Systems: An Introduction, 3rd Edition

14.1 Analysis of Spatial Information

Even though most of the real world can be observed with the naked eye, it is often difficult to interpret and systematize what is observed. It becomes even more difficult when the image of that reality is stored in digital form as geometric data and attribute tables. To bring out the patterns, connections, and possibly, the causes of variations in the data, various computer-based techniques are applied to analyze the data. Spatial analysis techniques are an attempt to imitate what concerns the human brain (i.e., to create an understandable image of reality). These are the techniques discussed in this and the following chapter.

Technology can help only to a limited extent, however. Stating problems and delineating the approaches to solutions together comprise one of the most difficult steps in GIS analyzing. This has to be solved by the individual user or operator before the technology can be put to use, based on his or her professional knowledge in the field of agriculture, environmental protection, planning, or other area, supplemented with knowledge of GIS.

Analyzing data normally comprises three principal phases:

1. Stating the problem
2. Choice of data
3. Analyses of the data chosen

Stating the problem is generally the most difficult step in using GIS for analytic analysis. Considerable specialized knowledge is often required—for example, in the fields of biology, physical planning, and geology—for identification and formulation of the problem. ...