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ENV510 Landscape Ecology and GIS
Definitions
& descriptions | Concepts
& issues | Setting
up GIS | Using
GIS
| Applications
Representation
| Concept
models | Data models | Vector
| Raster | Spatial
data | Referencing
| Data issues | Accuracy
| Error | Management
Classification of the GIS
data structure is based on the method of storing digital map data within the
computer and can be vector
or raster.
There has been considerable debate over whether vector or raster data structures are most appropriate for use in GIS. However, which structure is best largely depends on what you want to do with your GIS and the output you require. Two tables summarise the advantages and disadvantages of raster and the advantages and disadvantages of vector structures.
Read
http://www.geog.ubc.ca/courses/klink/gis.notes/ncgia/u21.html#SEC21.1
This will provide background reading on the raster versus vector debate. Feel like trying the questions? Go ahead.
Do this - Justifying raster or vector - Why?
Imagine that your colleague has been strongly arguing that vector is the only way to go for the new GIS you are designing. Your output will be mainly for scientific enquiry and needs great accuracy, and your input will mainly be digital images requiring complex analyses.
Is your colleague correct? Explain in your e-journal, then discuss in the discussion forum if you wish.
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