Spatial Statistics

This week we learned about how to apply spatial statistics to data inside a map.  The training provided by ESRI covered different aspects of geostatistics.  The first things learned in the training were how to apply a mean center, median center, and the directional distribution to a map in ArcGIS and what this actually means in the context of your data.  These tools basically show you where your data lies directionally and where it is centered.  You will see these applied to the map below. 

Next the training focused on histograms and QQ plots and how to interpret what those graphs display.  These are good tools to determine if your data is normally distributed or not and they are also good for finding outliers in your data. 

Finally the training focused on identifying outliers and conducting trend analysis.  Some tools to assist in identifying outliers included using Voronoi maps and semivariogram clouds in addition to the histograms and QQ plots learned earlier in the training.  Trend analysis was also conducted in ArcGIS using the Explore Data > Trend Analysis tool in the Geostatistical Analysis toolbar. 

The map I created below shows the weather monitoring stations in western Europe.  This map highlights the mean center and median center location as well as the general directional distribution of all the points.  A full explanation is included in the map itself.