The GeoParser demonstrator is a tool that allows users to upload web pages, text files, metadata records, xml etc., which can then be parsed for geographical names. These are then checked against GeoCrossWalk to obtain explicit geographical coordinates for the location referred to , in order to "geo-tag" the uploaded document. In other words, it demonstrates a tool that would be key to geo-enabling metadata, resources and services within a JISC Information Environment.
Many documents and metadata records refer to geographic locations in their text, yet do not tag these places with full geographical coordinates (e.g. an OS National Grid Reference). Imagine being able to read an on-line journal extract and click on any locations mentioned in it to see a location map, or a list of other resources that mention this place. If the resource is geo-tagged, this is possible. When metadata is geo-tagged, resources can also be searched for using geographical queries, not just the "what", "when" and "who" queries of standard resource discovery interfaces. For example you could search a multimedia service asking: “Find all films that refer to locations within 50 km of Bristol”, or search an on-line biological catalogue asking: “who is conducting research on species decline in the Isle of Wight”.
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If you are interested in using the GeoParser Demonstrator, please get in touch with the GeoCrossWalk Team: gxw@ed.ac.uk |
