Modelling cost estimation for accessing spatial data using fuzzy logic and time-driven activity based costing in the context of an NSDI

Abstract

Researchers on Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI) widely agree on using tangible social-economic benefits of SDI to advocate development of SDI’s. However, identification of such benefits has proven to be difficult and time-consuming. Based on concepts from the fields of psychology and economics, this paper argues that advocacy for SDI should take the form of publicising the consequences as a result of failure to address SDI. The ability to quantify the costs of accessing spatial data in an environment operating without SDI is an alternative way of providing evidence of the benefits of SDI. This paper presents a model for estimating the costs of accessing spatial data based on a fuzzy logic and time-driven activity-based costing methodology.