TOPIC 3: SPATIAL DATA MANAGEMENT
Spatial Data Formats
Spatial data refers to information about the location, shape, and relationship of geographic
features on the Earth’s surface.
These formats vary depending on whether the data is vector (points, lines, polygons) or
raster (grids, pixels).
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1. Vector Data Formats
Vector data represent geographic features using coordinates and geometry.
Format Description Key Features / Uses
Shapefile (.shp) Developed by ESRI Stores geometry and attributes in
(Environmental Systems Research multiple files (.shp, .shx, .dbf).
Institute); one of the most Widely supported in GIS
common vector formats. software.
GeoJSON Based on JSON (JavaScript Lightweight, human-readable,
(.geojson) Object Notation); used for ideal for web mapping (e.g.,
sharing spatial data over the web. Leaflet, Mapbox).
KML/KMZ Keyhole Markup Language used Stores geographic features and
(.kml, .kmz) by Google Earth. visualization styles; KMZ is the
compressed version.
GPKG Open standard by OGC (Open Supports vector and raster data in
(GeoPackage) Geospatial Consortium) (SQLite one file, high performance and
database format). compact.
DXF (.dxf) Drawing Exchange Format Used for exchanging CAD and
developed by AutoDesk. GIS data.
Coverage (ESRI Older ESRI format for storing Stores topology and attribute data;
Coverage) vector data in multiple files. less common today.
Spatialite (.sqlite) Spatial extension of SQLite Allows SQL-based queries of
database. spatial data; compact and
efficient.
2. Raster Data Formats
Raster data are stored as grids of pixels, each representing a geographic area and having a value
(e.g., temperature, elevation).
Format Description Key Features / Uses
GeoTIFF (.tif) TIFF (Tagged Image File Format)Supports multiple bands; stores
with georeferencing information.
coordinate system and metadata.
JPEG/JPEG2000 JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts
Common for background
(.jpg) Group) Image format with
imagery; limited spatial
compression. referencing.
PNG (.png) PNG (Portable Network Graphics)Used for maps on the web;
Compressed image format. supports transparency.
GRID (ESRI Proprietary raster format by ESRI.
High performance in ArcGIS;
GRID) supports integer and floating-
point data.
IMG (ERDAS IMG (Image File) Raster format Supports large datasets and
Imagine) used in remote sensing. multiple layers.
NetCDF (.nc) Network Common Data Form. Ideal for climate, ocean, and
atmospheric data storage.
HDF (.hdf, .h5) Hierarchical Data Format. Used for scientific data storage,
especially satellite imagery.
SPATIAL DATA DIGITIZATION
Definition: Spatial data digitization is the process of converting analog (paper-based)
geographic information such as maps, aerial photographs, or sketches into digital formats that
can be stored, analyzed, and displayed using Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
1. Purpose of Spatial Data Digitization
To preserve and modernize old maps or records.
To enable easier editing, analysis, and sharing of spatial data.
To integrate various geographic datasets into GIS.
To improve accuracy and efficiency in spatial planning and decision-making.
2. Types of Digitization Methods
Method Description Examples / Tools
Manual Digitization Involves tracing map ArcGIS, QGIS (using “Editor” or
features on a computer “Digitize” tools).
screen using a
digitizing tablet or
mouse.
Heads-Up Digitization Involves overlaying Most common method today.
(On-screen Digitization) raster images (scanned
maps) on the screen
and tracing features
directly using GIS
software.
Automatic Digitization Software automatically Used in remote sensing or scanned
(Vectorization) converts raster lines or map processing.
boundaries into vector
format.
Scanning (Raster Converts a paper map Done using scanners; output is a
Digitization) into a digital raster raster file (.tif, .jpg).
image (not vector).
4. Tools and Equipment Used
Category Examples
Hardware Digitizing tablet, mouse, computer, scanner, GPS device
Software ArcGIS, QGIS, ERDAS Imagine, AutoCAD, Global
Mapper
Supporting Materials Base maps, aerial photos, satellite images, survey records
Spatial Data Scanning and Data Input
Spatial data scanning and data input are the initial stages in the process of converting analog
geographic data (like paper maps, aerial photographs, or field sketches) into digital spatial
data usable in GIS systems.
1. Spatial Data Scanning
Definition: Spatial data scanning is the process of converting hard-copy (paper) maps or
aerial photos into digital raster images using a scanner or other digital imaging devices.
Advantages of Scanning
Preserves fragile or old paper maps in digital form.
Provides a quick way to convert large maps.
Facilitates easy sharing and storage.
Serves as a base for heads-up digitization (tracing features on screen).
Limitations of Scanning
Scanned maps are raster images, not directly editable.
Requires georeferencing before spatial analysis.
High-resolution scans may produce large file sizes.
Distortion or scaling errors can occur during scanning.
5. Spatial Data Input
Definition: Spatial data input refers to the process of entering geographic data (spatial and
attribute information) into a GIS database from various sources.
6. Methods of Spatial Data Input
Method Description Examples / Sources
Manual Digitization Tracing features from scanned maps on- Roads, rivers,
screen using GIS software. boundaries.
Scanning Converts maps/photos to raster format. Used as base for
digitization.
Coordinate Geometry Inputting features using measured Survey and cadastral
(COGO) coordinates and bearings. mapping.
GPS / GNSS Data Capturing real-world positions directly in Mapping utilities, roads,
Collection the field. buildings.
Remote Sensing Extracting data from satellite or aerial Land cover, vegetation,
imagery. water bodies.
Importing Digital Uploading ready-made datasets. Shapefiles, GeoJSON, or
Data databases.
Sources of Spatial Data
Type Examples
Primary Sources Field surveys, GPS data, remote sensing images
Secondary Sources Existing maps, statistical records, scanned images, reports
Advantages of Spatial Data Input
Facilitates creation of accurate and detailed GIS datasets.
Integrates different data types for spatial analysis.
Enhances planning, decision-making, and resource management.
Enables continuous updating of data.
10. Limitations
Time-consuming and labor-intensive.
May require costly equipment and software.
Potential errors during data conversion or entry.
Requires technical expertise for accuracy.