PRINCIPLES OF ELABORATION OF THE INTERNET-BASED ATLAS INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF TERRITORIES

Authors’ vision of the concept of web Atlas Information System (AIS) is stated. Similar to traditional paper atlases, the AIS provides the spatial information under preset themes and extents. The AIS present information in the cartographical form, including the use of multimedia (photo, video and audio). The user of AIS can influence contents, appearance, visualization parameters by simple manipulations, i.e. to carry out so-called customization. The system also allows the users to display and analyze their own geoinformation. The AIS offers the interface easily understandable to inexperienced users and simplifying the process of interaction with difficult mechanisms of data processing. The Web AIS could be classified into two groups depending on the representation, first is a stand-alone program with the functions of updating and inquiries to server bases of spatial and non-spatial data, i.e. an independent desktop application, second is a web application which is on the server and is only online available. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. In the first case the application can work in any case, but with limited functionality; at the same time it is complicated for design and control. Another one completely depends on connection with a network, but at the same time it is more flexible for control and data processing. Today the world-wide web reaches all corners of the globe and the high-quality communication is available practically everywhere. Thus the second way is preferable because of easy control and great opportunities for customization. Development of programming languages and web and server architecture makes it possible to resolve issues of GIS implementation in multimedia structures and vice versa, thereby realizing the concept of web AIS. Basing on the concepts of AIS development and the www-based AIS the idea of web AIS is suggested for creation of the models of sustainable development of territories. 

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