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Abstract The purpose of this paper is to describe a taxonomy of GIS functions, focusing on analytical capabilities. The taxonomy is rooted in an abstract model describing geographic data, and an operational model describing the processing of this data in GIS. The taxonomy emphasizes the meaning of the information derived through GIS-based analysis rather than the technical mechanisms for deriving this information. In Appendices to the paper, the taxonomy is tested by mapping functions from existing GISs into the taxonomy function categories.
Introduction
TAXONOMIES of GIS functions can serve in at least three capacities. On a technical level, they can be used for system evaluation and comparison. On a pedagogical level, they facilitate education and training by providing a structured description of system capabilities. On a theoretical level, they contribute to the development of a standard conceptual model of GIS functionality. Previous taxonomies of GIS functions vary widely in their purpose, scope and conceptual design. In our view, an effective taxonomy should include the following characteristics:
It should be conceptually-oriented rather than tied to a particular system or data model. This makes the taxonomy useful in a wide variety of contexts and to users of diverse systems.
It should focus on the analytical capabilities of GIS. These capabilities differentiate GIS from other computer-based information systems (e.g., CAD/CAM, DBMS, etc.).
It should provide a logical foundation for classifying existing GIS functions, and allow for new functions to be easily incorporated. This implies an emphasis on analytical capabilities that form the basis of GIS-based spatial analysis procedures.
The purpose of this paper is to present a taxonomy of GIS functions focusing on analytical capabilities. The taxonomy focuses on what real-world data are represented in GIS rather than how these data are represented. Accordingly, the taxonomy is conceptually rooted in two models. The first is an abstract model that describes geographical data in terms of its three underlying dimensions of space, time, and theme. The second is an operational model that describes the processing of geographical data in terms of input, analysis, and output stages. The rationale for this focus lies in the emphasis in previous taxonomies on the technological aspects of GIS functionality. In our view, the debate should focus instead on the meaning of the information...