![]() ![]() The analysis you intend to perform will dictate the types of spatial data you will need to collect and use. For example, points can be checked to determine if they fall within the boundaries of a polygon, or several polygons can be combined to produce a larger one. Vector data is well-suited for geometric analysis and comparison. Vector data has a very high resolution, and it is therefore a more accurate format for storing boundary information, like state lines, voting districts, and building outlines. ![]() Points can be captured and stored with corresponding state information at a point in time, which is useful for time-series analysis. Vector data, on the other hand, is well-suited for storing detailed information about features. For example, raster is not well suited for storing GPS transponder data, where properties like speed, heading, date and time, and vehicle ID are important and should be captured for many vehicles, simultaneously, through time. Raster cannot, however, capture more detailed information available in vector data. Because raster data can be collected using aerial and satellite imagery using various forms of optical sensors, it is a cost-effective format to cover large swaths of geography without the need for many smaller sensor readings, like IOT devices. Raster data is better suited for storing continuous and thematic information about the earth, like elevation and soil type, respectively. Vector and raster formats are optimized for storing different types of data, and therefore supporting different types of analysis. Why Different Approaches to Spatial Data? Raster data includes metadata that orients the grid to the map, including a Spatial Reference System, projection, boundaries, and position. ![]() Some may contain very granular cells of data, while others are more coarse and aggregated. Rasters can then be created at different resolutions depending on the observational data available. Each pixel represents a geographic “bin” that summarizes a value for the area, like temperature. Raster data, on the other hand, uses images to summarize geographic information in a grid of pixels applied to the earth’s surface at a particular scale. In addition to the coordinates, important metadata is stored about each feature, like its name or other properties. Vector data consists of coordinates, or series of connected coordinates to determine the location of features. Vector data uses points, lines, and polygons to represent features in the world. Spatial data can be split into two categories: vector and raster. This post provides an overview of the different types of spatial data and how you can make the most of yours. With the vast volume of cellphones, packages, vehicles, purchases and other items moving through time and space, a good foundational understanding of how spatial data can be used is increasingly valuable. ![]()
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