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GIS Algorithms
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GIS Algorithms



December 2015 | 336 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd
Geographic information systems (GIS) have become increasingly important in helping us understand complex social, economic, and natural dynamics where spatial components play a key role. The critical algorithms used in GIS, however, are notoriously difficult to both teach and understand, in part due to the lack of a coherent representation. GIS Algorithms attempts to address this problem by combining rigorous formal language with example case studies and student exercises.

Using Python code throughout, Xiao breaks the subject down into three fundamental areas:
  • Geometric Algorithms
  • Spatial Indexing
  • Spatial Analysis and Modelling
With its comprehensive coverage of the many algorithms involved, GIS Algorithms is a key new textbook in this complex and critical area of geography.
 
Introduction
 
Part I. Geometric Algorithms
 
Basic Geometric Operations
 
Polygon Overlay
 
Part II. Spatial Indexing
 
Indexing
 
k-D Trees
 
Quadtrees
 
Indexing Lines and Polygons
 
Part III. Spatial Analysis and Modeling
 
Interpolation
 
Spatial Pattern and Analysis
 
Network Analysis
 
Spatial Optimization
 
Heuristic Search Algorithms

Xiao’s book is a must-have for any GIS programmers, from beginners to professionals. Its sample programs in Python provide a rich library for key GIS algorithms. 

Fahui Wang
James J Parsons Professor and Chair, Department of Geography and Anthropology, Louisiana State University

This is a welcome book, which covers the major geographical algorithms for vector and point-based analyses, along with network travel analysis and optimal solution searches, in practical detail. Its concentration on applied Python examples is timely, and it is sure to be the go-to handbook for anyone wanting to build from-the-ground up GIS functions into Python software. In addition the algorithms are a good starting point for anyone looking to implement functions in other languages.

Andrew Evans
Senior Lecturer in GeoComputation and GIS, University of Leeds

Sample Materials & Chapters

GIS Algorithms: Introduction


For instructors

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ISBN: 9781446274330
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