Using a computational grid for geographic information analysis: A reconnaissance

Marc P. Armstrong, Mary Kathryn Cowles, Shaowen Wang

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

High performance computing has undergone a radical transformation during the past decade. Though monolithic supercomputers continue to be built with significantly increased computing power, geographically distributed computing resources are now routinely linked using high-speed networks to address a broad range of computationally complex problems. These confederated resources are referred to collectively as a computational Grid. Many geographical problems exhibit characteristics that make them candidates for this new model of computing. As an illustration, we describe a spatial statistics problem and demonstrate how it can be addressed using Grid computing strategies. A key element of this application is the development of middleware that handles domain decomposition and coordinates computational functions. We also discuss the development of Grid portals that are designed to help researchers and decision makers access and use geographic information analysis tools.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)365-375
Number of pages11
JournalProfessional Geographer
Volume57
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 2005
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Grid computing
  • Grid portals
  • Middleware
  • Parallel computing
  • Spatial statistics

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geography, Planning and Development
  • Earth-Surface Processes

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