GIS Distances and Directions Directly via the GSDM

Abstract

Geographic Information Systems (GISs) are used extensively in various disciplines worldwide. Driven by the digital revolution, those systems have evolved to include, among others, principles of science, engineering, mapping, data collection, and spatial data management practices. Consequently, the appetite for spatial data has exploded as end users find additional ways to exploit the benefits of using 3D digital spatial data. Map projections are a fundamental component of a GIS and serve as a bridge between measurement and application. The 3D Global Spatial Data Model (GSDM) has emerged as an alternative to the conformal map projection model and offers significant benefits to spatial data users worldwide. Admittedly using the GSDM can be disruptive to existing practice and well-established policies should not be modified without proper justification. The ultimate impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on spatial data applications is not yet known. Although AI and the GSDM might be viewed as compatible, unwanted consequences of using AI are to be avoided. Aside from considerations enumerated elsewhere, the purpose of this article is to highlight efficiencies that can be realized by using the GSDM to compute local (plane surveying) directions and distances as incorporated in a GIS (even with AI).