Vol. 34, No. 1, Spring/Summer 1996- "Geographic Information Systems"

INCORPORATING GIS MODELING TECHNIQUES INTO AN INTRODUCTORY ECONOMIC GEOGRAPHY CURRICULUM

(pp. 3 - 23)

Robert G. Cromley

Department of Geography

University of Connecticut

Storrs, Connecticut

Abstract

While technological improvements are still in progress, another important development in the evolution of GIS is the integration of its science and technology within the core of geography. Because computer technology in general and GIS technology in particular will have a profound influence on instruction media for future geographic education, it is important to move GIS concepts and technology beyond their traditional place in methodology courses and into the more general curriculum. This paper demonstrates how GIS methodologies can be incorporated in the instruction of elementary location theory in an introductory economic geography course. Models from market area analysis, agricultural location, and industrial location are represented and solved in a GIS approach. The GIS methods allow students to explore not only the basic structure of these models but also some of their applications. In the process, students are exposed to the commonalties among various classes of location models, including general concepts such as an isotropic plain, opportunity costs and surface gradients.

LANDFILL FACILITIES SITING USING GIS

(pp. 24 - 40)

Jose F. G. Mendes

Department of Civil Engineering

University of Minho

Braga, Portugal

Jose M. F. Silva

Department of Engineering Sciences

Polytechnic Institute of Viana do Castelo, Portugal

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to apply Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to the location of sanitary landfill facilities. The model stands on two phases: the first one, at a regional level, addresses the approximate location of the facility, using a location-allocation model that minimizes the transportation costs; the second phase, at a local level of analysis, includes a screening process based in a set of general physical, planning, and environmental criteria, which resulted in a final map of suitable polygon areas. An application of the model to a region in the Northwest part of Portugal is presented, demonstrating that GIS technology can be helpful as a decision-support tool for local and regional governments, particularly in location problems. 

A MODEL FOR EVALUATING AND PLANNING A BANK'S DELIVERY SYSTEM NETWORK

(pp. 41 - 49)

William Simmons

MarkeTech Systems, Inc.

Troy, Michigan

Abstract

The transformation of retail banking in the US has led to recognizing the importance of a financial institution's delivery systems. Branch offices place heavy burdens on a bank's income statement, though they are necessary for generating sales. This paper describes a process being used by banks for evaluating their branch networks. The process includes a decision support tool that uses a sophisticated consumer behavior model and GIS to forecast the performance of a network of branch offices. 

ON THE USE OF EIGENVECTOR TECHNIQUES IN CLIMATOLOGICAL ANALYSIS

(pp. 50 - 73)

Anthony J. Vega

Department of Anthropology, Geography and Earth Science

Clarion University

Clarion, Pennsylvania

Keith G. Henderson

Department of Geography and Anthropology

Louisiana State University

Baton Rouge, Louisiana 

Abstract

This paper attempts to clarify eigenvector use in climatologic and physical geographic analysis. The study emphasizes climatologic analysis due to a heavy reliance on eigenvector techniques in that sub-discipline. Because the most popular eigenvector technique in climatological analysis is Principal Components Analysis (PCA), that technique is described in detail. Implementation of the technique is discussed along with inherent procedural problems and popular solutions. In addition, interpretation of the statistical output (loadings and scores) is described and highlighted in a real world climatological example. Through this, it is hoped that a proper understanding of the technique is gained so that use of the technique may be established. An alternative goal of the paper is the understanding of current relevant literature utilizing the procedure. 

RECAPTURING THE HISTORICAL GEOGRAPHY OF FORKSVILLE, PENNSYLVANIA

(pp. 74 - 88)

Eric M. Orndorff

Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Abstract

The focus of this discussion is the historical geography of a single Appalachian mountain community, one whose experience, upon further examination, may prove to be representative of the development cycle of any Appalachian mountain community. Surrounded by scarce amounts of farm land and driven by both the logging and coal mining industries in the past, Forksville represents a community type not necessarily limited to Pennsylvania. The goal of the paper is to assemble this geographic history through the use of manuscript census data and other local records, as a means of revealing historical facts and reconstructing the past.