A framework for comparing spatial data infrastructures - an Australian-Swiss case study

Abstract

One of the important aspects of developing Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI) is to facilitate data sharing and data access. In order to achieve optimum access and use of spatial data within an SDI there is a need of knowledge about the management of data, metadata, and web services and their related processes. There are many SDI initiatives under development in many jurisdictions, and hence there are different ways to understand and assess the level of their success. One important way to achieve this goal is to compare SDIs.

This paper describes the development of a framework for comparison of SDI initiatives on the basis of their web services, data and metadata management. The research is of particular relevance since it develops a management model which facilitates the operational aspects and the development process of National SDI initiatives. The paper adopted a case study methodology and the study has been conducted between Australia and Switzerland. The National SDIs of these two countries are compared and assessed.