Information about the environment pertinent to site management concerns is being extracted from maps that contain, along with locations of structures and roads, hypsographical data. These maps were recently produced photogrammetrically, using stereoscopic aerial photographs, by a private firm under contract with the Ghana Survey Department. Elevation models, hydrology models, and viewshed models, and other models have been derived from the hypsographical data. The various themes, or layers of information, described above will make possible a variety of analyses that will guide planning and development in the Central Region of Ghana in ways that are sustainable. Line of sight analyses recommend where certain facilities should not or should be located given visibility from key attractions and scenic view locations.
Flow analyses identify probable paths of water flow and so locations subject to erosion or flooding.
Density analyses determine clusters and patterns of vegetation and cultural sites that indicate econiches or cultural patterns that might be threatened by development. It will provide a compact space where all sorts of data relevant to Historic Cape Coast can be stored in digital format, including images, maps, documents, photographs, and even audio recordings. More importantly, data will be arranged so that it can be incorporated into displays like maps, charts, and tables, and can be queried in the service of sophisticated analytical procedures. Future analyses can be the basis for future planning, design, and site management decisions.