Geospatial analysis platform: Supporting strategic spatial analysis and planning

Abstract

Whilst there have been rapid advances in satellite imagery and related fine resolution mapping and web-based interfaces (e.g. Google Earth), the development of capabilities for strategic spatial analysis and planning support has lagged behind, and where such capabilities have been developed there seems to be very little evidence of actual use thereof by practitioners (Klosterman, 2005). In this paper we argue that to support strategic spatial analysis and planning and to develop the necessary strategic understanding of spatial variations, patterns and relationships, on the one hand, requires much more than moving from fine resolution mapping to the use of large area statistics and associated maps. Besides having to address the problem of spatially incompatible statistical area boundaries (e.g. administrative boundaries differing from river catchment management boundaries), it is argued that there is also a need to move from the prevailing “container“ approach to a much more relational approach to spatial analysis. This means that instead of only measuring and mapping what is in each territorial container (e.g. a local municipality) attention should also be given to measuring and mapping the relative positions, cross-border influences and other inter-locational attributes that places have in relation to surrounding areas, corridors and the regional or country-wide distribution of key nodes such as towns, harbours, etc. On the other hand we argue that supporting strategic spatial analysis and planning through innovations in technology also requires the development of a relevant and user friendly planning support system (see Klosterman, 2005 and Geertman and Stillwell, 2004) that enables a wide range of users easy access and usage of such technology. The arguments and reflections in the paper are based on recent experiences with the development and application of the Geospatial Analysis Platform (GAP) by CSIR Built Environment (CSIR 2007a), in collaboration with a range of collaborators and stakeholders