[wms-dev] GetFeatureInfo queries using bounding box

[GeoPraxis Inc]

Richard Gould wrote:

>One of the problems that we have had with GetFeatureInfo is the lack of
>a mechanism to perform a query using a bounding box, rather than a
>single point.

We have had a similar frustration in some projects.  However, if we want to
crack open that "box" (as it were :-) ), IMO it would be better to go all
the way and support queries based on the whole list of GML geometry classes.
This would complicate requests, but anything else amounts to yet another ad
hoc solution applicable to some user requirements but not others, thus
satisfying some members of the user community while frustrating others.

If this was done, perhaps the capability to support each geometry class
could be published in the capabilities document.  That way, if there was a
security concern or other reason to exclude some classes, the server/service
developers could do so.  I expect, though, that Keith P. will have some
issue with this idea because it potentially could complicate cascading
GetFeatureInfo requests.
_____________________________________________________________
Stephen Kilburn
GeoPraxis Inc.