ESRI Press

Building European spatial data infrastructures.

The full potential of geographic information systems will not be realized until governments maximize access to geographic information through spatial data infrastructures, according to Masser (Centre for Advanced Spatial Analysis, U. College London, UK), who examines the institutional and decision-making tasks involved in their development and implementation by public-private partnerships. He describes the range of GIS applications available, introduces the concept of spatial data infrastructures (which "includes the materials, technology, and people necessary to acquire, process, and distribute [geographic] information to meet a wide variety of needs"), describes the current state of spatial data infrastructure in Europe, explores the need for an integrated infrastructure strategy at the European level, considers the legal framework for the INSPIRE (Infrastructure for Spatial Information in Europe) initiative, and identifies key strategic issues for future development of spatial data infrastructures. (Annotation ©2008 Book News Inc. Portland, OR)

Designed maps; a sourcebook for GIS users.

Brewer (geography, Pennsylvania State U.) has written two books and has worked as a map and atlas design consultant for various agencies and organizations, including the U.S. Census Bureau, National Cancer Institute, and National Park Service. She presents a resource text for a range of users from the experienced cartographer to the beginning geographic information system (GIS) user. The text features a collection of 70-plus excellent map designs organized into six categories: two types of reference maps — topographic and navigation; two types of special-purpose maps — visitor and recreation, and infrastructure; and two types of thematic maps — categorical and quantitative. Each chapter begins with a brief introduction, followed by a map Brewer has redesigned three different ways to show readers some alternatives, and several other example maps. No subject index. (Annotation ©2008 Book News Inc. Portland, OR)

Empowering electric and gas utilities with GIS.

Bill Meehan, the director of ESRI's worldwide utility industry solutions presents the business case for embracing geographic information systems (GIS) company-wide in utility organizations to improve communication and enable better decision making. The included case studies examine in a nontechnical format GIS software to model an electric distribution system, identify the best location for a distribution substation, locate damage, prevent outages and gas leaks, lower operating costs, and track work orders. (Annotation ©2008 Book News Inc. Portland, OR)