BigGIS: How big data can shape next-generation GIS

The emergence of the “Big Data” concept is changing the way data are managed and analyzed. Traditional GIS software is limited in dealing with big data challenges including versatile data forms, steaming processing, large scale parallel computing, and dynamic mapping and visualization. Significant improvement is needed, which can result in next generation GIS. This paper gives an overview of recent methods in supporting big data management and analysis in geospatial domain. First, it motivates the necessity to develop and use the bigdata-aware GIS software. By reviewing advanced information technologies and approaches, it can assess what operational system framework and approaches are available and applicable in developing bigdata-enabled next-generation GIS - BigGIS. Key considerations for development of BigGIS are highlighted. The results can help identify critical issues and direct future research agenda for next-generation GIS.