Core Spatial Data Committee

Introduction

The committee focuses on:

  • the development of the need for basic topographical data, the types of services provided in this context
  • technological developments in the field of sensors
  • information extraction
  • (visual) representation and ICT with regard to basic topographical data
  • new specifications for basic topographic data
  • new types of services in this context and the institutional roles to be fulfilled.

Members

  • Peter Van Oosterom (chair) – TU Delft
  • Rob Beck – NEO
  • Luc Heres
  • Jeroen Leusink – Waterschapshuis
  • Sander Oude Elberink – University of Twente
  • Ruud van Rossem – BZK
  • Martin Rijsdijk – Cadastre
  • Rene van der Velden – Prorail
  • Wilfred Visser – TNO
  • Robert Voûte – CGI

Mission

Previously, it was assumed that the specification of the contents of basic files (or maps) could be determined for a long time, such as the topographic map, the Large-scale Basic Map of the Netherlands (GBKN), or the elevation map. The medium and the production process and the production times applicable at the time required this.

In view of current developments, it appears that a more dynamic attitude is desirable with regard to the provision of topographical basic data. Specifications will have to be adapted more often to changing needs and changing technology for collection and processing. Because this concerns data that plays a basic role in the developing geo-information infrastructure, the government has an important responsibility. The government must take on this dynamic role on the basis of sound advice of a scientifically based and independent nature. These recommendations must also be operational, so that they must also be based on thorough knowledge of practice.

Tasks

The Dutch Geodesy Commission therefore seems to be the appropriate body to assist the government as a permanent advisory body. Given the dynamics of this area of interest outlined above, it seems advisable to embed a task in this area in the committee structure of the NCG.
The Spatial Basic Data Committee should address the following questions:

  1. How will the need for basic topographical data develop, especially in professional use?
  2. What types of services will be required in this context?
  3. Which technological developments in the field of sensors, information extraction, (visual) representation and ICT are relevant for the future delivery of products and services related to basic topographic data?
  4. To what extent do these developments offer opportunities for new specifications for basic topographic data and for new types of services in this context?
  5. What institutional roles can be fulfilled in this regard?

Furthermore, the committee is not only concerned with collection, but also with questions about which basic data will be important for the future and how the questions can be represented.