GIScience Colloquim Spatial Optimization, Significance and Evolving GIScience

Spatial optimization is introduced and reviewed in historical terms. The significance of spatial optimization is demonstrated through current analysis, management, planning and policy contexts focused on emergency response, food production, wildfire risk mitigation and public health monitoring. Further, mathematical formalization in spatial optimization offers a theoretical framework to establish findings as significant. The ways in which GIScience perspectives can directly and indirectly support spatial optimization are highlighted.