How do we represent Geographic Information digitally?

Now that we’ve covered how we project spatial data, we can learn how we actually represent that spatial data in a computer. But first, lets take a step back and talk more broadly about data.

What are data?

A collection of information (qualitative or quantiative) that describe a phenomena.

What makes spatial data different from other types of data?

The spatial coordinates must be treated differently (projected). Further, spatial relationshps like proximity must be accounted for.

Do similar issues arise with temporal data?

Yes! Time units must be treated differently and temporal relationshps like proximity are generally important.

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Table of contents

• Phenomena and Data Types
• Spatial Data Models