GIS-based simulation as an exploratory analysis for space-time processes

Fulong Wu
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Fulong Wu: Department of Geography, University of Southampton Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK (e-mail: f.wu@soton.ac.uk)

Journal of Geographical Systems, 1999, vol. 1, issue 3, 199-218

Abstract: Abstract. The purpose of this paper is to argue for a novel use of geographical information system (GIS) as an exploratory device for understanding complex space-time processes. Conventionally, a GIS has been configured as a spatial database management system. Therefore, the capabilities of data input, storage, retrieval, manipulation and display have been well developed, whereas the analytical and dynamic processing and modelling capabilities are under-developed. The importance of integrating GIS with dynamic and analytical models has been widely recognised. Extending the use of GIS into spatial simulation represents a plausible research direction. On the other hand, the usefulness of conventional deductive model becomes limited when dealing with complex space-time processes. In essence, the inherent complexity calls for a simulation approach. The new nonlinear modelling paradigm, for example, cellular automata (CA), opened a way in which behaviourally-richer dynamics and more micro-spatial data could be incorporated into understanding space-time processes. It is argued therefore that GIS can be used as a platform – a controlled environment or laboratory – for exploring complex space-time processes. The discussion of GIS-based simulation in this paper is illustrated with a primitive simulation of the evolution of urban spatial structure.

Keywords: Key words: Simulation; cellular automata; complex space-time processes; dynamic modelling; JEL classification: R11; R12; R14; R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 1999
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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DOI: 10.1007/s101090050012

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