The following mail was distributed through the lk-relief mailing list by the deputy HIC manager Patrick Gordon
Dear All
Please find enclosed a copy of the HIC P-Code Atlas.
What are P-codes?
The P-code is a shortened term for 'Place Code'. P-codes are similar topostal codes and are used in data management systems as unique referencecodes that identify specific locations throughout Sri Lanka. These P-codesidentify thousands of locations and help to systematically link data orinformation common to these specific locations. This then providesa means to both exchange data among organizations who use these codes andto analyse the relationships between data in common locations.Why are P-codes useful?P-codes help resolve the issue of what we call a place. Using actual namesof provinces, districts or divisions can lead to confusion over spelling,different languages or scripts as well as duplication. If agencies developindividual systems for naming or coding places this makes data sharingextremely difficult and potentially useful information go unshared. It mayincrease workloads if information has to be retyped or it may get filed andforgotten. Spatial data standards agreed by all agencies provide a single,unified system for referring to locations and facilitate free data exchangebetween participating organisations.Why should my organization use P-codes? P-codes promote cooperation andinformation sharing among agencies and make accessible to everyone the fullrange of information that has been managed in the P-code format. Thiscan include information on population, particularly locations of tsunamiaffected populations, information on housing and infrastructure damage,areas of landmines, fisheries and assistance distribution. This informationcan help you to plan your own programmes and avoid repeating surveysalready done by others. Agencies using the P-codes for their own datamanagement will be able to combine this information with datasets fromother participating organisations.
Spatial data standards include full geographic information systems (GIS)
smaller administrative units (GNs) to be mapped and geographicallyanalysed. Data collected with Global Positioning System (GPS)equipment can also be used. How can P-codes be used in my existingdatabases? In most cases, adoption of P-codes requires only the addition ofan extra column to your existing databases and spreadsheets. Over time itis recommended that any other naming or coding systems be phased out andthat all new data collection use the P-codes.
smaller administrative units (GNs) to be mapped and geographicallyanalysed. Data collected with Global Positioning System (GPS)equipment can also be used. How can P-codes be used in my existingdatabases? In most cases, adoption of P-codes requires only the addition ofan extra column to your existing databases and spreadsheets. Over time itis recommended that any other naming or coding systems be phased out andthat all new data collection use the P-codes.
Best Regards
Patrick Gordon
United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA)
Deputy HIC Manager a.i.
HIC, Sri Lanka
Phone +94 (0) 71-3034093
Fax: +94 (0) 11-258-9691
Sat: +88 2165 2000 513
