Introduction - Spatial Data Analysis: An Introduction for GIS Users - page 3

that it is possible to dip in to a particular topic and the discussions about methods are,
in the majority of cases, fairly self-contained.
Many other topics provide introductions to spatial data analysis (or geospatial analy-
sis, as it sometimes called). h e topic by O'Sullivan and Unwin (2002) provides an
excellent account of some key ideas as well as more advanced material. Lloyd (2006),
De Smith et al. (2007), and Chang (2008) provide other detailed accounts. Lee and
Wong (2000) also provide clear introductions to core principles and in-depth accounts
of more complicated ideas. h e topic by Cressie (1993), which focuses on spatial
statistics, is encyclopaedic in its coverage, extremely well regarded, and has become
something of a standard work. Other works, such as the topic by Grii th (1988), seek
to disseminate research i ndings for those already familiar with the principles of spa-
tial data analysis. h e present topic is intended to have a rather dif erent focus to any
of these topics. h e specii c intention is to communicate some ideas and concepts that
are central to the analysis of spatial data without discussing alternative approaches in
great depth. It is hoped that the topic will provide material to develop the reader's
conceptual understanding such that topics dealing with a broader range of methods
can then be encountered with greater coni dence. By keeping things to the point, but
addressing key issues, I hope that this topic will build knowledge and interest and
encourage enthusiasm for learning more about spatial data and their analysis.
As noted previously, it is assumed that readers will have some background knowl-
edge of GIS. Reference is made to key principles such as data models and databases
with the expectation that these will be familiar. However, an attempt is made to intro-
duce all potentially new topics. h e topic only briel y discusses key topics such as data
input, visualization, errors and error propagation (transfer of errors from one process-
ing stage to another). Instead, the focus is directly on the analysis of spatial data and,
where appropriate, other sources of information are suggested. h e further reading
section at the end of this chapter provides some starting points for major issues that
are not discussed in depth here and each chapter has a further reading section at
its end.

Key concepts

1.3

A topic of this length can only provide an in-depth account of a limited range of methods
and ideas; it necessarily skirts over many major issues. Nonetheless, the aim has been
to provide sui cient background to some key concepts and some specii c approaches
that readers will be able to explore other methods in an informed way. h e next three
chapters seek to outline a set of basic principles, an understanding of which is neces-
sary to make use of the rest of the text. For readers new to the topic of spatial data
analysis these chapters may be more challenging than most of the rest, but it is hoped
they will allow development of a knowledge base appropriate for making use of the
rest of the topic.