1. September 2012
GIS Data Models Explained
A look at GIS data models
and their functions.
GULF INTERSTATE ENGINEERING COMPANY
16010 BARKERS POINT LANE
SUITE 600
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77079 USA
(713) 850-3400

2. 1. Purpose
2. Introduction to GIS Data Models
3. Hierarchy
4. Database Objects
5. Exercise
6. Tips & Tricks
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3. • Quick Database Information…
– Enterprise versus Personal
• Accessibility
• Storage
• Structure
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4. • What is the purpose of using data
models?
– Efficiency
– Quality
– Standard
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5. 1. Purpose
2. Introduction to GIS Data Models
3. Hierarchy
4. Database Objects
5. Exercise
6. Tips & Tricks
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6. • What is a data model?
– A data model defines structured data for
storage in Database Management Systems
(DBMS).
• Are there pipeline related data models?
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7. • PODS
– Key Notes
• GIS software neutral
• Relational, hierarchal, GIS data model
• Non-spatial / “Flat”
• Uses GUIDs
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8. • PODS
– Pipeline Open Data Standard
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9. • PODS
– Support Information
• PODS was first developed in 1998.
• GIS database expanded ISAT data model.
• Maintained by PODS Association.
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10. • PODS
– Pipeline Open Data Standard
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11. • APDM
– Key Notes
• Expressly designed for Esri GIS software
• Relational, hierarchal, GIS data model
– However, it uses Esri database types to
differentiate “domains” from relationships.
• Spatially enabled
• No GUIDs
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