About this ebook
This book is for experienced Python developers who want to learn about geospatial concepts, obtain and work with geospatial data, solve spatial problems, and build sophisticated map-based applications using Python.
What You Will LearnAccess, manipulate, and display geospatial data from within your Python programsMaster the core geospatial concepts of location, distance, units, projections, and datumsRead and write geospatial data in both vector and raster formatPerform complex, real-world geospatial calculations using PythonStore and access geospatial information in a databaseUse points, lines, and polygons within your Python programsConvert geospatial data into attractive maps using Python-based toolsBuild complete web-based mapping applications using PythonIn DetailGeospatial development links your data to locations on the surface of the Earth. Writing geospatial programs involves tasks such as grouping data by location, storing and analyzing large amounts of spatial information, performing complex geospatial calculations, and drawing colorful interactive maps. In order to do this well, you'll need appropriate tools and techniques, as well as a thorough understanding of geospatial concepts such as map projections, datums, and coordinate systems.
This book provides an overview of the major geospatial concepts, data sources, and toolkits. It starts by showing you how to store and access spatial data using Python, how to perform a range of spatial calculations, and how to store spatial data in a database. Further on, the book teaches you how to build your own slippy map interface within a web application, and finishes with the detailed construction of a geospatial data editor using the GeoDjango framework.
By the end of this book, you will be able to confidently use Python to write your own geospatial applications ranging from quick, one-off utilities to sophisticated web-based applications using maps and other geospatial data.
Style and approachThis book is a comprehensive course in geospatial development. The concepts you need to know are presented in a hands-on fashion with example code to help you to solve real-world problems right away. Larger programs are built up step by step while guiding you through the process of building your own sophisticated mapping applications.
About the author
Erik Westra has been a professional software developer for over 25 years and has worked almost exclusively in Python for the past decade. Erik's early interest in graphical user interface design led to the development of one of the most advanced urgent courier dispatch systems used by messenger and courier companies worldwide. In recent years, Erik has been involved in the design and implementation of systems matching seekers and providers of goods and services across a range of geographical areas as well as real-time messaging and payments systems. This work has included the creation of real-time geocoders and map-based views of constantly changing data. Erik is based in New Zealand, and he works for companies worldwide. He is also the author of the Packt titles Python Geospatial Analysis and Building Mapping Applications with QGIS as well as the forthcoming title Modular Programming with Python.
