X-Arc spatial data integration in the SPeCS collaborative design framework

X-Arc is a Web-based architecture for the integration and sharing of spatial data sources in an XML (Extensible Markup Language) format that applies meta data and mediation concepts. It is an important component of SPeCS (Spatial Decision Collaborative Support System), an architecture which intends to support the aspects of multi-criteria spatial analysis within a distributed GIS with tools that can help a group cope with all activities in this kind of project. In the X-Arc framework, the availability and computing capabilities of data sources, as well as the heterogeneity of its data (structure, format, type and meta data) are explored by the data mediation and publishing services. Through SPeCS users can cooperate, collaborate and coordinate their integration activities during their spatial analysis. The work presents a framework that supports the georeferencing of argumentations and allows transparent access to heterogeneous data sources involving the members of the design team in a spatial collaborative context.