Tool

PBRS utilises Geographic Information System (GIS) software, which allows geographically referenced thematic data to be collated, analysed and combined. By synthesising a wide range of GIS data layers, the PBRS helps to identify the true character of individual sites and areas. This allows the development of a combined needs and opportunity overview of the economic, social, and environment potential of a site or area, and results in the production of maps to highlight the highest value sites and locations. Partners can then consider how best to address the issues via integrated interventions and programmes.

With data increasingly being made available with geographic referencing, GIS provides a powerful tool to build a robust evidence base on which decision makers can build policies, actions and interventions.

Any GIS packages can be used to develop PBRS models. However, previous models have been developed using ArcGIS 9.1 with the 3D and Spatial Analyst extensions, MapInfo Professional 8.0, AutoDesk Map 5 and PocketGIS. In addition to standard mapping tools, Spatial Analyst and 3D Analyst allow cell-based modelling at a range of scales - resulting in high quality outputs that can be expressed in 3D.