Towards innovative problem solving methodologies for less developed countries in Asia

In this paper we discuss the need to develop appropriate methodologies for geo-information production, management and dissemination from remotely-sensed images and in-situ geospatial data in less developed countries (LDCs) primarily in Asia. While in general the same methods are applicable for both developed and LDCs, certain environmental, cultural and socioeconomic factors frequently render some methods more appropriate and workable in different areas. In consideration of the above, the International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ISPRS) has set up a working group (WG) to address this theme until 2008. Some of the factors that have led to the establishment of this working group are: (i) image acquisition, especially space-borne, has traditionally been unaffordable for many countries; (ii) the recent successful, and forthcoming launch of “affordable” micro-satellites in Africa and Asia, respectively, as part of the Disaster Management Constellation (DMC), has increased the interest of governments and scientists in LDCs in remote sensing (RS), hence there is a need to develop appropriate tools to process the data acquired; (iii) ICT infrastructure constraints limit data access, transfer and analysis capabilities.
Consequently, the principal WG’s terms of reference are the following: (i) convert theoretical methodologies and models into practical operational ones suitable for LDCs; (ii) develop integrated methods for remote sensing and in-situ data collection for data-sparse regions; (iii) develop appropriate image processing methods using simple computer technology; (iv) develop algorithms for improvement and calibration of airborne videography for geometrically less significant applications and thematic map updating in LDCs; (v) carry out a structured assessment of existing bottlenecks (besides cost for imagery and hardand software), that prevent effective transfer of existing methodologies; and (vi) evaluate open-source or low-cost remote sensing and GIS software tools (e.g. OSSIM, ILWIS) to address the actual needs of LDCs.