Representing the socioeconomic world

Abstract

This paper considers the potential of geographic information systems as a tool for the analysis of the socioeconomic environment. To obtain the maximum benefit from spatial data, it is necessary to find a structure which allows analysis at a wide range of scales, and this is a severe limitation to conventional vector-based systems. Raster models may be constructed that overcome many of these difficulties. This approach serves to illustrate a number of ways in which GIS can be used as a basis for spatial statistics and modeling of socioeconomic phenomena.