Week 7: Suitability Analysis

Final map product outputs

This week's assignment involved applying suitability analyses using several criteria and different methods.  Both vector and raster methods were applied for a straight-forward 'binary-type' suitability analysis, then a weighted overlay analysis was performed.  Ultimately a comparison was made between two different weight schemes using the overlay method, and the final outputs were compared (see map product at right).

First, a raster grid displaying a landscape of suitability for each criterion was made.  Generally, places on low slopes, far from rivers, close to roads, on particular soils, and on particular land cover types were considered more suitable.  Then, the five criterion themselves were weighted.  The map compares the equally weighted criteria output, and the unequally weighted criteria output.  In real applications, weight assignment is determined by accepted research, personal observation, or popular opinion within the decision-making community.  Clearly in the map above, slope has a large influence on the suitability of particular areas.