Approach to General Data Model of GIS Symbol Library and Symbol Library Data Exchange XML Schema

Symbol portrayal is an important function of GIS. Sharing symbolic information in different GIS platforms is necessary for GIS applications and users. This paper discusses the necessity, possibility and solution technique of sharing a symbol library in different GIS platforms. The route map is designed as follows: first, to set up a general data model for the symbol library, then to design a standard exchange format, and finally to call on the GIS manufacturer to provide the interchange tools for their symbol library for the standard exchange format. This paper analyzes the general characteristics of GIS symbolic library, gives a symbol library model and a draft of XML schema of the symbol library exchange format.