Geoinformation methods for determining the geographical centers of administrative entities

Abstract

Determining the geographical center of administrative territories is a fundamental task of centrology, which has significant scientific and practical importance, particularly for geopolitical planning and cartographic support. However, the concept of “center” does not have a single analytical solution, since the result depends on the chosen algorithm and conceptual understanding of “centrality.” Many early studies lacked high accuracy or detailed description of the methodology. Modern GIS technologies allow this problem to be solved, but at the same time offer a number of different mathematical approaches.

The purpose of the study is to conduct a comparative analysis of the results of determining the geographical centers of the Volyn region and its districts (Volodymyr, Kamin-Kashyrsky, Kovel, Lutsk). The study aims to establish a connection between the configuration (shape) of territories and the variability of the calculated centers' locations, as well as to develop practical recommendations for the application of each method.

The study was conducted in the QGIS environment. Vector boundaries from OpenStreetMap (OSM), obtained through the Geofabrik service, were used as source data.

The analysis revealed significant variability in the position of the centers depending on the method and geometry of the district. Two hypotheses were tested. The hypothesis that areas with complex shapes (Kamin-Kashirsky, Kovelsky) with low compactness indices show the greatest divergence of centers was confirmed. However, the hypothesis that compact areas have stable centers was refuted by the example of the Lutsk area.

A matrix of practical application of methods has been developed, linking specific methods (e.g., pole of inaccessibility, center of minimum circle) with applied tasks (e.g., placement of waste disposal facilities or communication towers).