ABSTRACT
The most significant technical contribution of the DIME geocoding system is the topological edit. It provides for accurate computer editing and correcting of the structural elements of the coded geographic file; i.e., streets and other linear elements, points where the linear elements intersect, and area identifiers. The edit can theoretically be done manually, although practically it is only done by computer, except in a demonstration or test situation. Depending on the number of times the file is cycled through the edit process, it is possible to correct the clerically coded file so that it becomes a perfect replica of the elements on the map coded. However, in practice, cost limitations usually do not permit a sufficient number of edit cycles to correct the file completely. A residue of uncorrected errors may range from less than 1 percent to 4 or 5 percent. At least two or three edit cycles should be completed to assure sufficient accuracy in the file.
