Modeling Our World: ESRI Geodatabase Design Guide

Author: Cai Le Zhang Xiaoxiang et al.
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-12-01
Features: A geographic data model is a digital framework used to describe the location and characteristics of real-world objects. In geographic information systems (GIS), we can view these models as a set of lenses through which we observe, interpret, and analyze the infinitely complex natural and artificial environments. By utilizing the new geographic data model, geodatabase introduced in ArcGIS 8, we can significantly expand the breadth and depth of modeling geographic reality in a database environment. This book is a comprehensive guide and reference for GIS data modeling, particularly for geodatabase data models. It shows us how to make correct decisions regarding geographic data modeling, which almost covers all aspects of GIS engineering projects, including database design, data acquisition, spatial analysis, and visual representation. In this book, you will learn:
Designing a geographic database suitable for engineering projects;
Customizing the database without writing code;
Managing workflows in complex engineering projects;
Modeling linear systems such as rivers, roads, and power lines;
Integrating satellite imagery for geographic analysis and expression;
Creating three-dimensional GIS data models.
This book uses hundreds of full-color maps and images as illustrations to serve a broader audience. Whether you are an experienced GIS user or a beginner just learning to use the software, you will find this book an essential read on the path to GIS success. This book elaborates on the general methods of geographic data modeling, serving as a comprehensive guide to GIS geographic data modeling, covering multiple aspects such as database design, data acquisition, spatial analysis, and visual representation. It also introduces the design and implementation of geographic databases using geodatabase as an example. The book is divided into 12 chapters, primarily addressing five key questions: How to design a suitable geographic database, how to customize the database without writing code, how to manage workflows in complex engineering projects, how to model various linear systems such as rivers, roads, and power lines, how to integrate satellite imagery for geographic analysis and expression, and how to create three-dimensional GIS data models using TIN.
The book is illustrated with hundreds of exquisite maps and images, making it visually engaging and easy to understand. It can be used as a textbook for senior undergraduate and graduate students in geographic information systems (GIS) and related disciplines, as well as a reference for GIS engineering professionals.