Author(s): Matthew O. Ward, Computer Science Department, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA 01609

William L. Power and Peter Ketelaar, Fractal Graphics, CSIRO Division of Exploration and Mining, P.O. Box 437, Nedlands, Western Australia, 6009 Australia

Source: Computers & Geosciences, Vol. 22, No. 10, pp. 1123-1131 (1996)

Abstract: The complexity and diversity of data and processing now being used in geoscientific data analysis are increasing at such a pace that it is difficult to maintain a single software package capable of performing all required tasks. A typical solution is to use a number of commercial software packages loosely linked via file format conversion routines or other customized communication paths. Creating and maintaining these paths is made difficult by both the number of distinct packages being used and by the evolutionary changes taking place within each package. In this paper we attempt to create a generic model for a geological data processing task, identify some of the difficulties involved in performing these tasks using current technology, and outline a computational architecture that may correct many of the deficiencies of existing technology. Our goal is not to provide a detailed design but to present some key issues and possible solutions as a foundation for discussion and investigation.