NETWORK ANALYSIS IN GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION-SYSTEMS

Many spatial relationships can be described as linear networks using a common database structure stored in a geographic information system (GIS). Pathfinding and allocation procedures built into a GIS can be used to create highly realistic models of flow through these networks. In a GIS environment, a single data model can be used to analyze linear networks representing streets, waterways, telephone lines, and other related phenomena. Several other functions of a GIS facilitate network analysis. Map digitizing and editing procedures support creation of the cartographic portion of a network database. A relational database management system supports assignment of flow-control attributes to network cartography. Finally, the GIS environment makes possible interactive graphical implementations of pathfinding and allocation procedures, which are easy to use and produce models easy to interpret.