Desktop GIS-MCDA

Abstract

The implementation of GIS-based MCDA has evolved in step with advances in GIS and information technology in general. Historically, implementations were isolated through the use of specific scripting or programming languages and incompatible GIS data structures. The question of whether the MCDA module was tightly or loosely coupled with GIS modules was an important one. Today’s software design allows for seamless integration of functional modules across computing platforms—at least in principle. Therefore, the focus of this chapter is placed on GIS concepts and techniques that directly influence the implementation of MCDA procedures within GIS. This chapter describes the implementation of MCDA procedures in vector-based or raster-based data structures using generic GIS functionality. Examples of dedicated MCDA modules in desktop GIS packages are outlined along with a case study that integrates vector- and raster-based GIS-MCDA.