The Spatial+ library performs all of the functions illustrated here very rapidly, and can handle very large data sets. In order to optimize these searches, the library uses a proprietary format for the object file, and creates optimized spatial indexes on the ZIP + 4 directory file, as well as on the target point file for Radial analyses.
To assist the developer in importing objects into the object file, the Spatial+ library allows the import of points, lines and polygons from a BNA, MIF/MID, SHP or TAB files. BNA files are created by ESRI's Atlas GIS Import/Export program, MIF/MID and TAB files are created by MapInfo® products, and SHP is an ESRI proprietary format. The BNA and MIF/MID formats are published, allowing the developer to write a translator for these formats.
To perform PiP and Radial functions, the point files need to have lat/lon coordinates assigned to each point. These assignments can be made through the GeoStan™ library, or assigned via the Geocoder or Centrus Desktop products.