Problems and Lessons Learned

The major barriers in this project were the learning curve in learning IDRISI functions and Adobe GoLive software programs and the lack of foresight and preparation for the spatial analysis. The most time-consuming aspect of this project was to conceptualize a model that would work in IDRISI and would return an accurate model. I used a process of trial and error to choose the Decision Wizard as the best means of obtaining the surface of Prince George that I required. Unfortunately when I imported the data from ArcGIS vector data into IDRISI vector data the particular projection of the ArcGIS data was not available in IDRISI so I chose the closest matching projection which was Universe Transverse Mercator 10n. This is not the most appropriate projection for the area of my study but I was consistent throughout the project and I did not experience difficulties with projecting layers together. I assume however that I increased my margin of error by warping the map to an inappropriate projection. Also to save myself time, if I had thought ahead I could have combined factors instead of creating a cumbersome list of factors. I could have created four sets of factors, the medical services, high, medium and low priority social considerations.
In hindsight I would have included an analysis of slope in my model considering that elderly patients may have trouble reaching areas that are nearby but are at the top of steep slopes.