GIS: Spatial Data Overview

Data is spatial when it includes information that positions it somewhere on (or relative to) Earth.

Vector data

• Point
  • points in space; XY (and sometimes Z) coordinates
  • e.g., washroom locations
• Line
  • two or more points connected to form a line
  • e.g., bus routes
• Polygon
  • three or more points connected to form an area
  • e.g., neighborhood boundaries

Raster data

• A matrix of cells or pixels
• e.g., satellite imagery; LiDAR data

Open Access

Freely available to view and download online. Government data is frequently open access. 

Library Access

Only accessible to the USask community. Requires login with your NSID/password or the assistance of a Library employee.