The Development and Impact of Web-based Geographic Information Services

Dr. Winnie S.M. Tang
Managing Director, ESRI Hong Kong Limited., Level 10, Cyberport 2, 100 Cyberport Road, Hong Kong,
Tel: (852) 27306883, Fax: (852) 27303772, E-mail: wtang@esrihk.com

Jan Robert Selwood
Project Manager, ESRI Hong Kong Limited., Tel./Fax: 81 5617 2 8887, E-mail: jrselwood@attglobal.net

Abstract
Web-based Geographic Information Services (GIS) are fundamental to the way in which geo-spatial data will be managed in the future. This paper examines two evolving services: web-based editing of geo-spatial data and geo-spatial data and service portals. It considers the state of current technology and future directions, and the potential impact that these services will have on the way in which geo-spatial content and applications are used, managed and purchased in the future.

To date the most significant impact of web-based GIS has been to revolutionize access to existing geospatial resources. This development has however focused attention on areas where progress has not been as marketed: data maintenance remains a relatively costly and centralized process, and data/service copyright and licensing issues.

Web-based tools capable of geo-spatial data editing are beginning to address maintenance issues. Tools are now being developed that revolutionise data capture and update services. They permit not only efficient, cost-effective and flexible data capture, but the potential to significantly increase timeliness and accuracy.

The nascent geospatial data and service portal industry is also providing new ways to address data/service delivery issues. This enables flexible data, application and licensing packages to be provided to specific market segments. Minimizing staff/cost overheads, these permit new and exciting ways in which data can be controlled, packaged and paid for.

The technology behind both services remains fluid and rapidly evolving, however, their efficiency looks set to ensure their widespread expansion as technological limitations are overcome in the next few years.