Map generalization and schema transformation of geospatial data combined in a Web Service context

The integration of multiple geodata sets is a major challenge for developing Spatial Data Infrastructures (SDIs). Currently, this integration is achieved using schema transformation processes. However, as SDIs mature and the need for more complex transformation processes increases, generalization provides appropriate tools for supporting complex transformations for the integration of different data at different scales. Additionally, if processes for generalization and schema transformation are both available as Web Services, it becomes feasible to combine these two types of processes in Web Service chains. To establish such chains successfully, interoperability is a crucial issue. This paper presents a common service classification addressing the issue of interoperability based on former classifications for generalization and schema transformation processes. The applicability of establishing such processing chains and the applicability of the classification are demonstrated by two process scenarios involving generalization and schema transformation. The feasibility of both process scenarios is studied by implementing them in a Web Service architecture. The presented architecture uses the OGC Web Processing Service (WPS) interface specification. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.