Open map List

Semantic Data

In cartography, semantic data refers to geographic information that includes contextual meaning, relationships, and metadata to enhance the interpretation and usability of spatial data. It goes beyond raw coordinates and attributes by defining how geographical features relate to each other in a structured and meaningful way.

Basic

Introduction

Key Characteristics of Semantic Data in Cartography:

  1. Meaningful Representation – Provides descriptions, classifications, and relationships between map features (e.g., a river is a water body that flows through a city).
  2. Ontology-Based Structure – Uses ontologies and taxonomies to categorize geographic features (e.g., land use classifications, road hierarchies).
  3. Machine-Readable and Interoperable – Supports integration with GIS, linked open data (LOD), and web-based maps.
  4. Contextual Awareness – Allows maps to provide dynamic and intelligent representations (e.g., understanding that a “park” is a green area meant for recreation).

Examples

Examples of Semantic Data in Cartography:

  • Semantic Labeling of Features:
    • Instead of just labeling a polygon as “forest,” semantic data may include:
      • Type: Deciduous Forest
      • Function: Biodiversity Conservation
      • Relationship: Adjacent to a river and road network
  • Smart Maps & GIS:
    • Roads can be categorized based on function (highway, street, footpath) rather than just being simple line data.
  • Thematic Mapping:
    • A land use map can define categories like residential, commercial, industrial, with relationships to zoning laws and population density.

Outgoing relations

  • Semantic Data is subconcept of Data

Incoming relations