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This study demonstrates the possibilities of present-day geographic information systems (GIS), operating under the analytical paradigm, for manipulating vegetation data bases. A case study of Mount Desert Island, Maine, compares applications of different vegetation-map classifications originally derived under the communication paradigm by A. W. Kuchler in 1956 with their analytical counterparts. By using a GIS, field data are easily manipulated to produce map classifications from which vegetation components can be extrapolated or combined with other variables to form integrated terrain units. GIS automation greatly enhances the analytical capabilities and potential uses of vegetation maps.

Nearly three decades after development of the Canada Geographic Information System, the first functional geographical information system (GIS), a compendium of primary research topics and typical applications has finally been [...]