Application of ArcView GIS to geological mapping

This report considers how GIS may be used in geological mapping to facilitate best practice, improve efficiency and accuracy and to address problems inherent in traditional processes and products. It is based on innovative use of ArcView GIS (Version 3.2) in revision of the geological map of the Isle of Man during the period 1999-2001.
The Isle of Man project was sponsored by TotalFinaElf Exploration UK PLC and their partners Enterprise Oil plc and Amerada Hess Limited and involved contributions from researchers in several UK universities and the Geological Survey of Ireland.
The report was compiled as part of the SIGMA (System for Integrated Geospatial Mapping) project, the aims of which are as follows:
1. To provide a structured best practice methodology for the complete survey process in BGS, including acquisition and management of existing data and knowledge, evaluation of existing geological models and prioritisation of new surveys, and the output of updated maps, databases and spatial geoscientific models
2. Development of an integrated GIS application for data assembly, capture, manipulation and management
3. To address all aspects of the implementation process, including development of equipment and software, re-engineering of management systems and work processes, and the enhancement of human resources.