A Local-State Government Spatial Data Sharing Partnership

A Local-State Spatial Data Sharing Partnership Model to Facilitate SDI Development
Table 2.2 illustrates that most of the definitions emphasise the core elements that comprise
a SDI include data, people, access mechanisms, standards and policies. In addition
Rajabifard and Williamson (2001) and Groot (2000) emphasise the need for data sharing
and partnerships.
2.4.4 SDI Components
The elements that comprise an information infrastructure, as identified by Carbo (1997) in
section 2.4.3, parallel those put forward by various authors in Table 2.2. The key SDI
components of data, people, policy framework, standards and access/distribution
technology are summarised in Table 2.3.
Table 2.3 Components of SDI (after Warnest 2005)
DATA Fundamental datasets are themes of spatial information regarded as primary in
supporting the key functions of a country or jurisdiction, providing the common
spatial reference and context which underpins many other forms of business
information. An individual agency may consider fundamental data in terms of the
most important strategic spatial information that supports its business functions
and processes.
Themes commonly considered fundamental can include geodetic control,
cadastre, administrative boundaries, geographic names and localities, street
address, transportation, elevation, hydrology and orthophoto imagery. The list is
not definitive and is dependent on the priorities of the responsible agency within
each jurisdiction.
PEOPLE Includes the users, providers, administrators and custodians of spatial data and
also value-added re-sellers. Users can be corporate, small or large business or
individuals, public or private.
INSTITUTIONAL
FRAMEWORK/
POLICY
The broad application of SDI beyond the traditional mapping and land
administration role means users and administrators of spatial information have
very different qualifications and professional backgrounds.
Includes the administration, coordination, policy and legislation components of
an SDI. The institutional framework is reliant on successful partnerships and
communication between agencies within and between jurisdictions.
STANDARDS Consistent standards and policy are required to enable the sharing, integration
and distribution of spatial data; hence standards for data models, metadata,
transfer and interoperability of storage and analysis software. Policy particularly
needs to be consistent for the pricing and access to spatial data within and
between jurisdictions.
ACCESS AND
DISTRIBUTION
TECHNOLOGY
Consists of the access and distribution networks, clearinghouse and other
means for getting the spatial information or datasets to the users. Technology
also involves the acquisition, storage, integration, maintenance, and
enhancement of spatial data.
These SDI components and their inter-relationships may be viewed in a number of ways.
Rajabifard and Williamson (2001) suggest that the fundamental interaction between people
and data is governed by the dynamic technological components of SDI, namely the access
network, policy and standards (see Figure 2.5).
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