Selection of Geographic Information System (GIS) Software for the Mapping of Living Plant Collections
Date
2005
Authors
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Publisher
University of Delaware
Abstract
Botanical gardens, as stewards of living plant collections, are given the
duty of managing the data concerning their collection. These data are both historical
and geographical. Since the 1950s, people have been working to manage their
geographic data using a system of computer modeling. This system has evolved into
what is now commonly known as a Geographic Information System (GIs). This study
looks at the database and mapping software system combinations currently in use at
botanical institutions. A compiled list of forty-nine named institutions shows the
reader what combinations are in current use.
This study is written for institutions that already have a computerized
database in place, and are seeking information on choosing a computerized mapping
system. A discussion of the history of Computer Aided Drafting (CAD), Geographic
Information System (GIS) and computer mapping in general, educates and prepares the
reader to become familiar with particular software packages. A literature and history
review provides the reader with resources for more information on database systems if
they do not currently have one implemented in their institution.
Plant mapping professionals rank a series of 20 questions on the
importance of computerized mapping software to the institutional needs. The three
most commonly utilized mapping software packages were then evaluated on a point-by-
point basis to determine which software options most completely fulfills the garden
users' stated desires. One software choice was found to be the most flexible for the
garden users' stated desires.
Description
Keywords
Technology, Plant collections, Mapping, Geographic Information System (GIS)