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| Spatial data and network Spatial data exists dispersed on a network. Establishment of spatial data infrastructure is considered to be achieved by bringing together dispersed data using an effective method. Clearinghouse and meta-data Clearinghouse is an essential element of spatial data usage. Clearinghouse is a facility that provides information on where information with particular content is located, and more specifically, is similar to the search page on the Internet. Spatial data always needs meta-data. Meta-data is similar to a product catalog, and is information that describes the contents, quality, conditions of use, characteristics, etc., of spatial data. If a user wishes to use spatial data of a specific region, he or she will first access the clearinghouse and enter the necessary conditions using the search engine. The search engine will search through meta-data of various regions, and will show the search results with meta-data. The user will then access the actual data by looking at these search results. This is also important information for the providers of spatial data in preventing duplication because this enables the provider to know the information about other organizations. The efficiency of a search engine depends of the nature of meta-data. Accordingly, a search engine for spatial data becomes necessary if one seeks a search engine that can sufficiently provide contents that a user requests. |