Development of an integrated system to enhance spatial data processing & management for planning authorities.
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Date
2023
Authors
Lumwaya, Clayton
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The University of Zambia
Abstract
In a world where there is constant data generation and processing, the need for an integrated system cannot be overemphasized. The systems that enable the storage of large amounts of spatial data and available to multiple users in real time. However, studies have shown that standalone desktop spatial systems are often rigid and inflexible to support multiple data processing or demands from multiple users, highlighting the inability of traditional systems to effectively manage the ever-growing volume and complexity of spatial data. Recognizing this challenge calls for a paradigm shift toward integrated spatial management systems. These systems are designed not only to store spatial data efficiently but also to provide a dynamic and flexible framework that can adapt to the evolving demands of data processing requirements. By seamlessly integrating various tools and platforms, integrated spatial management systems offer enhanced accessibility, visualization, and processing of spatial information. The Integrated Spatial Management System, born out of these considerations, stands as a testament in overcoming the limitations of traditional desktop spatial systems. Its core objective is to unlock the full potential of spatial data utilization, promoting accessibility, visualization, and efficient processing. The research employed a quantitative approach. This approach played a pivotal role in gathering field data, contributing to the design and development of the prototype. Recent research aimed to assess the state of integrated spatial data systems among targeted institutions, revealing that 71.4% of these entities did not have integrated spatial data systems, while 28.6% had partial integration. In response to this gap, the study focused on developing an integrated spatial system architecture that would allow for seamless querying of both spatial and non-spatial data. A significant milestone was the distribution of the database across various platforms, promoting adaptability and flexibility in data management. The integration process combined existing data management tools used by local authorities, like desktop GIS, with innovative interfaces such as WEB-GIS and Mobile GIS. This approach facilitated real-time web access and data collection, significantly enhancing the capabilities for data manipulation, analysis, and visualization. A key achievement during the project was the implementation of streamlined automated map production, which offered users efficient tools for generating maps for a range of applications. The integrated system did more than just advance technology; it transformed the approach to data management in planning authorities. The ability to exchange, share, and process data through multiple access points yielded substantial efficiency gains. This allowed users to conduct deeper spatial analyses, identify patterns, and derive valuable insights from the integrated datasets. The automated map production further optimized the system's capabilities, making map generation more efficient and versatile.
Keywords: Geographical Information Systems, Planning Authorities, Integrated Spatial Management System
Description
Thesis of Masters’ in Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation.