The DataBuffer Tool is a flexible tool that generates species alert layers by buffering, combining, and dissolving species data. It integrates with a GIS system as a menu item to allow configurable buffering and clustering of species records from data layers. The automated tool saves time by standardizing the buffering process, allows exploration of scenarios quickly, and documents results for auditing.

1. DataBuffer Tool
Generating buffered species alert layers
What is the DataBuffer
Tool?
An easy to use, flexible tool to
generate ‘species alert’ layers
based on species data held by
the LERC
Species data can be buffered,
combined and dissolved as
required to create data that is
easy for partners to use and
interpret
Fully integrated into your GIS
system as a menu item
Fully configurable to suit your
organisation’s requirements
Compatible with MapInfo
(ArcGIS and QGIS versions can
be developed)
What do the outputs look like?
In order to simplify large numbers of records for each input layer, outputs can be ‘Combined’ when multiple
records exist within the same location, or ‘Clustered’ when within a specified distance of each other
Spatial output in native GIS format (platform dependent)
Each output layer can be fully configured with custom symbology
Spatial output is added to the GIS interface
A log file automatically documents the process for auditing purposes

2. Automates spatial
data searches
How does it work?
The tool integrates with your GIS, where it accesses the data layers you wish to use
A log file is kept of the process
Information about how to buffer and cluster the data layer is contained in an XML
configuration document. This information includes:
• Which data layers to make available
• Which columns to include in the output layer
• Subsets of records to include or exclude from each data layer
• Which columns to group the records by in the output layer
• Buffer distances and dissolve distances for each data layer
• Symbology to apply to the output layer
Data Buffer ToolGIS System Data layers
Spatial output
XML Configuration
What are the advantages to me?
Save time through the automation of a routine manual task
Standardise the process as well as the outputs, reducing the risk of
user error
Obtain consistent results through the use of a central configuration
file
Explore ‘what if’ scenarios easily and quickly
Make data creation easily repeatable and automatically documented
Fully documented user guide in online and PDF formats
How to I get the tool?
Contact Andy Foy (Andy@AndyFoyConsulting.co.uk) or Hester Lyons (Hester@HesterLyonsConsulting.co.uk)
for more information about the DataBuffer Tool.
Other tools in the series:
Bulk extracts from
SQL Server and GIS
Queries data from
SQL Server via GIS