Open map List

Non-spatial data

Non-spatial data in cartography refers to descriptive (attribute) information that does not have a direct geographic location but is associated with spatial features on a map. It provides context, classification, and additional details about geographic entities without defining their position.

Basic

Introduction

Key Characteristics of Non-Spatial Data:

  • Describes features rather than locating them.
  • Linked to spatial data via attribute tables in GIS.
  • Categorized into different types (nominal, ordinal, interval, ratio).
  • Essential for thematic mapping and data analysis.

Examples

Examples of Non-Spatial Data in Cartography:

Feature Type Spatial Data (Location) Non-Spatial Data (Attributes)
City Coordinates (latitude/longitude) Population, name, GDP, climate
River Path (line feature) Length, water quality, flow rate
Road Road network (vector lines) Speed limit, name, traffic volume
Country Political boundary (polygon) Population, language, GDP

Outgoing relations

  • Non-spatial data is subconcept of Data

Incoming relations

  • Attribute is subconcept of Non-spatial data