PostGIS in Action teaches readers of all levels to write spatial queries that solve real-world problems. It first gives you a background in vector-based GIS and then quickly moves into analyzing, viewing, and mapping data. You'll learn how to optimize queries for maximum speed, simplify geometries for greater efficiency, and create custom functions for your own applications. The book covers PostgreSQL 8.4, 9.0, and 9.1 features and shows you how to integrate with other GIS tools. About the Technology PostGIS is an open source spatial database extender for PostgreSQL. It equals or surpasses proprietary alternatives, allowing you to create location-aware queries with just a few lines of SQL code, and provides a back-end for mapping applications with minimal effort. About the Book What's Inside An introduction to spatial databases Geometry types, functions, and queries Applying PostGIS to real-world problems Extending PostGIS to web and desktop applications About the Reader Familiarity with relational database concepts is helpful but not required. About the Authors Regina Obe and Leo Hsu are database consultants. Regina is a member of the PostGIS core development team and the Project Steering Committee. They are hosts of BostonGIS.com and PostgresOnLine.com. Quotes From the forward: A concise guide that's truly one of a kind. - Paul Ramsey, Chair, PostGIS Steering Committee An elegant introduction to a difficult domain. - Mark Leslie, LISAsoft Pty Ltd The ultimate PostGIS tour guide. - Brent Wood, NIWA Will give you the Aha! moment you've been waiting for. - Jeff Addison, Southgate Software Ltd Want to get the most out of PostGIS? This is required reading for you. - James Fee, WeoGeo.com