A standard for encoding location as part of a web feed format, GeoRSS (Geographic Really Simple Syndication) enhances RSS feeds by attaching geographic information such as latitude and longitude coordinates. This allows users and applications to filter and search for content based on geographical locations, making it a powerful tool for disseminating location-relevant information.
<georss:point>45.256 -71.92</georss:point><georss:where>
<gml:Point>
<gml:pos>45.256 -71.92</gml:pos>
</gml:Point>
</georss:where>GeoRSS Formats
GeoRSS supports two main formats: GeoRSS-Simple and GeoRSS GML (Geography Markup Language).
- GeoRSS-Simple: An easy-to-use format that supports basic geometries (point, line, box) for indicating the location of the feed item. It is designed to be simple enough for anyone with basic XML or RSS knowledge to implement. For example, a GeoRSS-Simple entry for a point might look like this: `<georss:point>45.256 -71.92</georss:point>`.
- GeoRSS GML: A more complex format that allows for a broader range of geographic objects, including polygons and complex lines. It is based on the GML standard and can represent more sophisticated geographical features. An example of a GeoRSS GML element might be: `<georss:where> <gml:Point> <gml:pos>45.256 -71.92</gml:pos> </gml:Point> </georss:where>`.
Applications of GeoRSS
GeoRSS feeds can be consumed by mapping software and services, allowing for the dynamic display of geographically tagged information.
- News outlets: Use GeoRSS to tag news stories with locations, making it possible for users to find news relevant to specific places.
- Event listings: Geographically tagged using GeoRSS to enhance the user's ability to find location-specific information.
- Weather updates: Can be tagged with geographic information to provide location-specific weather data.
- Real estate listings: Use GeoRSS to provide location-specific property information.
By integrating GeoRSS into RSS feeds, publishers provide an additional layer of information that enriches the data's value and usability, especially for applications where the geographical context of the content is important. This capability makes GeoRSS a key technology in the growing field of geospatial web applications and services.
