Data model (GIS)

<p>A geographic data model, geospatial data model, or simply data model in the context of <a href="/facts/Geographic_information_system/PoP1kVoa">geographic information systems</a> (GIS), is a mathematical and digital structure for representing phenomena over the Earth. Generally, such <a href="/facts/Data_model/j1YyzpJ3">data models</a> represent various aspects of these phenomena by means of <a href="/facts/Geographic_data/FUSjSQ71">geographic data</a>, including spatial <a href="/facts/Location/fXux5RaJ">locations</a>, attributes, change over time, and identity. For example, the <a href="/facts/Vector_graphics/y8ok7M2P">vector</a> data model represents geography as collections of points, lines, and polygons, and the <a href="/facts/Raster_graphics/HkXNc8oI">raster</a> data model represent geography as cell matrices that store numeric values. Data models are implemented throughout the GIS ecosystem, including the software tools for data management and <a href="/facts/Spatial_analysis/R6rlDzRl">spatial analysis</a>, data stored in a variety of <a href="/facts/GIS_file_formats/nfG1rVIP">GIS file formats</a>, specifications and standards, and specific designs for GIS installations.
</p><p>While the unique nature of spatial information has led to its own set of model structures, much of the process of <a href="/facts/Data_modeling/bryA2moP">data modeling</a> is similar to the rest of information technology, including the progression from <a href="/facts/Conceptual_data_model/Wj3tuIgg">conceptual models</a> to <a href="/facts/Logical_data_model/K0EbrogL">logical models</a> to <a href="/facts/Physical_data_model/KGUwxXsC">physical models</a>, and the difference between <a href="/facts/Generic_data_model/ldRJBB8K">generic models</a> and application-specific designs.
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Data model (GIS) open-in-new

Data model (GIS)