Seumas
Linear regression : not really an estimation technique for spatial data,
though regression forms some of the basic theory
for the derivation of kriging equations.
Splines : not really an estimation technique, just something
used to make curves smooth on contour plots.
IDW : after ploygonal technigues the simplest of spatial
modelling techniques, does not take into account
clustering of data.
Kriging : a spatial modelling technique superior to IDW
when you have reasonable variograms, and
takes into account clustering of data and instead
of using distance to weight samples uses your
variogram (sometimes referred to as statistical distance).
Conditional simulation: a spatial modelling technique of a special sort.
Where kriging gives you the "best" estimate. Simulation
is used to analyse other possible outcomes for your
sample set, so you can see the effects if reality varies
from the "best" model. Example use includes planning
for chemical purchases at a metallurgical plant, so you
can plan for variations from your kriged model should
they occur.
Digby Millikan www.users.on.net/~digbym
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