Maps are a convenient way for people to use spatial data.

• Mappers design and create many kinds of maps to show spatial data.
• People in various disciplines use spatial data for many purposes.

Maps are flat and portray 2-dimensional data superbly well.

• People live in 3-dimensional space on/near a spherical earth.
• Map projections provide a way to show a curved earth on a flat map.
• Distances are distorted, especially with conformal projections.
• Multiple projections are needed to cover a large area accurately.

New technology has revolutionized many aspects of map making.

• Manual processes have been computerized. Productivity has soared.
• Many maps are referenced to geographical latitude/longitude (2-D).
• Topographic maps include contour lines to show elevations (3-D).
• Many mapping equations (mathematical models) are quite complex.
  • Horizontal and vertical spatial data are handled separately.
  • Computers have been programmed to do the work.
• Modern systems such as GPS receivers, photogrammetric mapping, and surveying "total stations" collect spatial data in 3 dimensions.
• Many disciplines use Geographic Information System (GIS) tools.

A new 3-dimensional Global Spatial Data Model (GSDM) which exploits
modern technology is available and is better because it:

• Accommodates all forms of 3-D spatial data measurement.
• Does not distort distances as does a 2-D conformal map projection.
• Uses one set of standard solid geometry equations world-wide.
• Handles horizontal and vertical data in the same 3-D data base.
• Provides a way to obtain standard deviations for all spatial data.
• Is equally applicable for very precise applications as for others.
• Permits GIS and other computer intensive spatial data computations to be accomplished more efficiently; critical in a dynamic environment.

With a modest investment, spatial data users can begin realizing these benefits utilizing existing staff, technology, and resources.

Software for performing 3-D computations is called BURKORD®.

Read more about the rigorous definition of the GSDM.

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© 1997-2000 by Global COGO, Inc. BURKORD® is a registered trademark of Global COGO, Inc.