THESIS

The aim of the diploma thesis is to analyse, describe and evaluate spatial and geographic aspects of Google Cloud Platform (GCP). The theoretical dimension of the work reviews the general ecosystem of cloud platforms with emphasis on Google Cloud. More specifically, Google Data Studio was selected as the unit of observation. Focus is given to integration with supported tools by the GCP, data import, connection and integration. Also, emphasis is on the visualisation purposes, including both general and cartographical methods, parameters, datasets and implementation approaches. As a practical approach, cartographic outputs and spatial visualization are evaluated, quantified and analysed by several aspects including the cartographical, geoinformatics, user, technical, and economic. Based on a suitable dataset and defined workflow, case studies demonstrating the benefits and limits for varied topics are developed.

The study is guided by the following objectives: To review the spatial and geospatial ecosystem of Google Cloud Platforms; To investigate the visualization dimensions of Google Cloud Platform with emphasis on general and cartographic methods, parameters, datasets and implementation approaches ; To evaluate, quantify and analyse the cartographic and spatial visualization ; To analyse the limitation and potentials of Google Cloud Platform for geoinformatics and cartographic use ; To develop a workflow for spatial data connection and visualization via Google Cloud Platform.

The result of the work will allow for an integrated evaluation framework for Google Data Studio (GDS) as well as detail alternative approach to Geovisualization and Geoanalytics. A library of workflow is also developed to aid a seamless implementation of various geovisualization methods.