Comparison of visual languages in Geographic Information Systems

Abstract

Contemporary Geographic Information Systems (GIS software) are, in some cases, extended by components for visual programming. These components are used to design a dataflow process. In this poster two examples of components are assessed. These are ModelBuilder in ArcGIS Desktop 10 and the Workflow Designer in AutoCAD Map 3D 2012. In both components for visual programming users are offered a possibility to graphically design steps for spatial data processing. The interfaces, graphic elements and a functionality scope vary greatly between these two components. An assessment is presented from both cognitive as well as usability point of view. AutoCAD Map is based on ideas of Windows Workflow Foundation. ModelBuilder is the solution by Esri Company. Moreover, an output model from ModelBuilder can be converted from graphical sketch to textual scripting language Python. The output Python script can also be used as the starting point for novice programmers. A practical application of a model for batch processing is presented as an example that demonstrates the cartographic generalization-smoothing of vector data for the smaller map scale in ArcGIS ModelBuilder. The following example demonstrates workflow for the spatial function Create Buffer of data in AutoCAD Map Workflow Designer. The presented experiences are based on several years of lecturing at the university. Both visual components are taught within the study program “Geoinformatics” at Palacký University.