National Center for Geographic Information and Analysis

This report describes the activies of the Center in its first year to carry out its primary mission for "basic research on geographic analysis utilizing GIS." This research focused on improved methods of spatial analysis and advances in spatial statistics; ' a general theory of spatial relationships and data base structures; artificial intelligence and expert systems relevant to the development of geographic information systems; visualization research pertaining to the display and use of spatial data; and social, economic, and institutional issues arising from the use of GIS technology. It also identifies the Center's steps to "augment the nation's supply of experts in GIS and geographic analysis in participating disciplines; promote the diffusion of analysis based on GIS throughout the scientific community; and provide a central clearinghouse for disseminating information regarding research, teaching, and applications."