Multimedia Reporting of the Results of Natural Resource Surveys

Abstract

Abstract For most of the twentieth century Natural Resource Surveys were executed for particular geographical regions and for each region a paper map was produced together with a written report. Those conducting the survey and preparing the report have used that report to convey much information to the user, which would otherwise be lost. To the authors the report is the real product, and the map a view onto it. To most users, however, it has always been the map that was important because many lack the knowledge to comprehend the report in any detail: the report, therefore, being an adjunct to the map. Increasing production costs combined with the advances in computer systems and especially the widespread use of this information within GIS have resulted in a shift from paper to digital as the publication medium for the map and the report (when it is produced at all). Currently, many different models of presentation of natural resource survey results are apparent, ranging from those which only contain the map (spatial information) to those combining the report and the map on CD‐ROM to those presenting a more integrated view of the map and the equivalent of the report. None has yet reached the full spatial multimedia solution which is now possible with computer technology. Such an approach will make it possible to interrogate the map for the report information, and vice versa, and to access and visualize tabular information. The current diversity of approaches means the potential loss of the valuable knowledge of the surveyors and report‐writers other than as it is expressed in the map, but the integration of the report with the map in a multimedia presentation may save the report, and make that information available to more people than ever before.

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