From Space to Place and Back Again:Towards an Interface Between Space and Place

Abstract

Geographic information systems represent and process space whereas people refer to and use place. A question that arises is what are the benefits of introducing a unified data model that combines the rigid representation of space and the information-rich concepts of place. In this work we contribute to this research question by proposing a two-way interface that aims to bridge the notions of space and place. This interface relies on the four conceptions of space and interconnected spatial objects. Step-by-step descriptions as well as examples are provided to illustrate the intended use of the proposed interface