Re: PostgreSQL + PostGIS - "mining" FGDC metadata of GIS datasets

Hi Greg,
You mentioned that your data is in the "ESRI geodatabase" format, if it is stored in the PostGIS datatype called geometry then you will be able to use the data in the open source software stack that you are proposing.

The data being recognized a geodatabase does not have any bearing on your ability to use it with open source stack, as long as the type in which it resides is understood by PostGIS.

Sincerely,
Kasia

-----Original Message-----
From: pgsql-novice-owner(at)postgresql(dot)org [mailto:pgsql-novice-owner(at)postgresql(dot)org] On Behalf Of Bob McConnell
Sent: Monday, January 19, 2009 4:25 PM
To: Greg Cocks
Cc: PostgreSQL List - Novice
Subject: Re: [NOVICE] PostgreSQL + PostGIS - "mining" FGDC metadata of GIS datasets

Greg Cocks wrote:
> Hello,
>
> I am looking in to building a web site with PostgreSQL, PostGIS,
> MapServer, and OpenLayers so users can access an online catalogue of
> what GIS data is available within an organisation - spatially,
> temporally and/or with other criteria.
>
> Most the existing data in ESRI geodatabases and "so forth"...
>
> I am new to a lot (most!) of this, so was hoping for advice on:
>
> (i) does this seems like a 'reasonable approach'? (and I know I have
> only described it broadly)
>
> (ii) can it be made flexible enough? (esoteric question I know), and
>
> (iii) is this a "big job" for me, a relative newbie as mentioned?

Hi Greg,

I am not sure how big a job it will be. Much of it depends on your other
background and experience. However, there are a couple of open source
GIS projects already underway that could give you some ideas, or even
some code you can start with. As long as you don't plan to sell it as
your own invention, most of the OSS licenses would allow you free reign.
Who knows, you might get good enough to contribute improvements back to
those projects. There are search functions on Google, Sourceforge and
Freshmeat that should point you in the right direction.

There are also a number of APRS (Amateur Position Reporting Service)
systems around. I am not sure what the difference is, but I believe they
use a lot of the same information.

Bob McConnell
N2SPP