GIS for Web Developers
"GIS for Web Developers: Adding Where to Your Web Applications" by Scott Davis provides an in-depth exploration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and how they can be integrated into web development projects. Davis guides readers through the process of incorporating geographical data and interactive maps into web applications. The book is divided into several chapters, each focusing on a specific aspect of GIS and its application in web development.
In the introduction, Davis breaks down the concept of GIS, emphasizes the availability of free data sources and applications, and encourages readers to become GIS programmers.
The book covers various key topics:
1. Vectors: This section introduces different types of geospatial data, including raster and vector data. It explains the anatomy of shapefiles, the process of downloading and styling layers, and working with basemap layers.
2. Projections: Here, the author delves into the challenges posed by the curvature of the Earth and the need for projections to represent it on flat surfaces. Concepts like Cartesian planes, coordinate reference systems, and reprojecting data are discussed in detail.
3. Rasters: Davis explores raster data, explaining how to work with various types of imagery. Topics covered include mosaic, tessellation, scale, resolution, and orthorectification. The section also outlines how to download and manipulate raster data.
4. Spatial Databases: This chapter introduces the concept of spatial databases and how to work with them. The focus is on PostgreSQL and PostGIS, with discussions on adding, querying, manipulating, and visualizing spatial data.
5. Creating OGC Web Services: Davis explains how to create and manage OGC (Open Geospatial Consortium) web services using tools like GeoServer. The process of adding shapefiles and PostGIS layers, styling with SLD (Styled Layer Descriptor), and creating web services is covered.
6. Using OGC Web Services: The chapter delves into understanding and utilizing OGC web services such as WMS (Web Map Service) and WFS (Web Feature Service). It covers requesting and filtering geospatial data through these services.
7. OGC Clients: The author introduces tools like Mapbuilder, OpenLayers, and uDig, which enable developers to build interactive maps and visualize geospatial data in web applications.
8. Bringing It All Together: Davis wraps up by demonstrating the integration of GIS concepts learned throughout the book. From data manipulation and geocoding to creating slippy maps and 3D viewers, this chapter shows how to put all the pieces together.
The book provides detailed insights into incorporating geographic information into web development, catering to both beginners and experienced developers. It covers a wide range of topics, from understanding geospatial data formats to creating interactive web maps and using OGC web services. By the end of the book, readers should have a solid foundation in using GIS technologies to enhance their web applications with location-based features.
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