Review and Discussion of GIS Application Development Methods
Yunfeng Kong · Geography and Geo-Information Science · 2005
The theoretical and practical application development methods for general information systems and geographic information systems since later 1980s are summarized separately.It is observed that there are quite a few software development methods for GIS implementation,for example code and fix,classic lifecycle model (waterfall and structured system analysis and design),rapid application development (e.g.prototype,organic lifecycle and evolutionary delivery),socio-technical approach (e.g.soft system analysis,ETHICS and Multiview) and pragmatic procedures.However,different methods have different emphases,advantages and disadvantages,and some guidelines advised for GIS users may vary considerably and be inconsistent.For the purpose of developing GIS implementation guidelines,the authors introduce a general management framework for GIS from software development and project management perspectives.The framework practically integrates five interrelated elements:software development method (e.g.RAD,OLC or ETHICS),project lifecycle (initiation,plan,implementation and close),project management objectives (e.g.cost,time,quality,etc.),project management functions (organize,plan,implementation and control) and environmental factors (human,organizational and social issues).Based on the analysis of the new GIS management framework,it is recommended to launch GIS case study research in China through questionnaire survey,interview and multidisciplinary collaboration and consequently to develop a management guideline for Chinese GIS users according to their requirements.