The State Of Development Of Systems For Handling Natural Resources Inventory Data

Abstract

In early 1980, Tomlinson Associates examined nine computer-based systems to assess their ability to handle natural resources inventory data. Their client, the Saskatchewan Department of Tourism and Natural Resources, was considering the acquisition of such a system to handle their forest resource data. Cost effectiveness, reliability, ease of use, and ability to meet the volume and throughput requirements were considered, as well as technical capability. Five systems were selected for detailed standardized tests on a function-by-function basis. Except for a block adjustment procedure, the Forest Inventory Section required general-purpose spatial data handling software suitable for many users who process natural resources inventory data. The tests showed that the systems could not then meet the requirements for forest data processing in Saskatchewan. Much of the software was under development but was not yet reliable. Some packages worked well but others operated so slowly that they could put a heavy load on computing facilities. The Forest Inventory Section was advised not to purchase a system but to watch system developments with a view to acquiring a system later. The report produced allows potential users to assess the degree to which their needs for individual spatial data handling functions may be met by the current technology. It identifies the capabilities that are difficult to provide and the nature of the problems. The state of the art of systems for handling resources inventory data is shown.

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