The Development of a Geographical Information System

Abstract

The history of using computer for mapping and spatial analysis shows that there has been a parallel development in automated data capture, data analysis, and presentation in broadly related fields. This multiplicity in efforts in several initially separate but closely related fields is now resulting in possibility of linking many kinds of spatial data processing together into truly general purpose geographical information system, as the technical and conceptual problem are overcome. The tremendous development in the fields of GIS has paved ways for new systems to be developed. These system should typically be equipped with features like various methods to input the spatial data (Data capturing methods), provision of different and relevant view to the user of stored data, some new database design for keeping attributes attached to spatial data, new searching and retrieval methods, and three dimensional representation of maps. The aim of research was to develop a prototype Geographical Information System. This new system is not intended to replace the existing commercially available systems. But rather is an exercise for students to implement and adopt new ideas. The project was an effort to implement some of the above mentioned features.