ABSTRACT
Current SDI design is mainly focused on networked access to datasets. However, technological advancements are providing spatial information producers and users with new data access opportunities. The convergence of wireless communication techniques, for instance with positioning technology and network computing are providing the mechanisms for a range of facilities and applications known as Location Based Services (LBS). LBS often rely on a range of common spatial fundamental datasets. However, at this stage no coordinated effort has been made to use SDI to facilitate access and retrieval of parts of these common datasets. In order to take advantage of the technological developments enabling new data access opportunities, there is a need to augment the existing SDI model. Augmentation is proposed through the revision and expansion of current infrastructure element definitions. The revised elements should encompass a high degree of flexibility so that they can continue to adapt to the wide variety of applications that are expected to arise from these and future technological convergences.
