Automating the administration boundary design process using hierarchical spatial reasoning theory and geographical information systems

Abstract

This paper addresses the problems associated with the integration of data between incongruent boundary systems. Currently, the majority of spatial boundaries are designed in an uncoordinated manner with individual organizations generating individual boundaries to meet individual needs. As a result, current technologies for analysing geospatial information, such as geographical information systems (GISs), are not reaching their full potential. In response to the problem of uncoordinated boundaries, the authors present an algorithm for the hierarchical structuring of administrative boundaries. This algorithm applies hierarchical spatial reasoning (HSR) theory to the automated structuring of po..