Edge Matching

Edge matching is one of the crucial methods of GIS data editing which aims at ensuring proper alignment of geographic features on the edges of the maps or adjacent GIS datasets or layers. The method is intended for creating a seamless presentation of geographic information by means of identifying and eliminating possible positional discrepancies between the geographic features whose alignment is required to match.

While performing edge matching, GIS editors analyze the geographic features like roads, rivers, property boundaries, railways, pipelines, utilities and other linear and polygon features. When the same feature is presented in a different way on the adjacent datasets, the geometry of that feature can be edited in order to make it align properly. This procedure allows GIS editors to identify and correct some typical problems of GIS data editing such as gaps, overlaps, duplications of the features, disconnected lines and inconsistent boundaries of polygons.

Edge matching is especially important when GIS data is being compiled from various sources or acquired during different time periods. Inconsistencies in surveying, scale, reference system, accuracy, and other characteristics of geographic datasets can lead to misalignment of the neighboring GIS data.