Chapter 2. Importing and Exporting Spatial Data

Once we have defined a data model, the next step is to load data into it. After the data is loaded, it needs to be checked for "cleanliness" before indexing and using it. There are many methods for loading data of different types and formats. In this chapter, we describe some of the most common formats, and how they can be loaded into the Oracle database using free tools, tools already available with Oracle, and tools from third-party vendors. In addition, we also discuss other issues relating to import performance and organization of data for efficient access by applications.

The goal of this chapter is to give you a complete overview of all aspects of data loading from tools, through physical loading techniques and data organization, data quality checking, and indexing.

• Extract, transform, and load (ETL) tools: GeoKettle, Oracle Spatial Shapefile loader, and Map Builder

• Using SQL, Application Express, and Excel

• Implementing theoretical storage...