GSDM
Mr. Day,
You asked a very important question. The simple answer is "no."
But, you and others (any/all spatial data users) deserve a better answer. Portions of a better answer include:
1. The GSDM is an arrangement of existing concepts. The mathematics and equations are all public and published.
2. The vendors are all well aware of those concepts and equations and, my guess is, most vendors have all that 3-D capability buried in their software. If the users asked for it, they can provide it.
3. Prototype software, both old DOS-based and Windows-based is gratis and can be downloaded from http://www.globalcogo.com . I personally wrote the DOS version in FORTRAN and my good friend Sayed Hashimi wrote the Windows version.
4. The important contribution of the GSDM to the profession is that it equips the user with powerful tools to do what the user wants to do in a very efficient manner.
5. The position I hesitate to promote is, "here is magic software that you can use to do great and wonderful things." I am more interested in helping fellow users understand the underlying concepts and equipping them develop their own tools (spreadsheets, programs, utilities, etc) that you can use to build your own capability.
6. For those who would like to build a program and sell it to others, I have a trademark on the term "BURKORD" that covers software and data base design. The trademark really does not come into play (licensing is available) unless you want to reference BURKORD and sell your program to others. My goal is to serve the end user.
7. The possibility of developing a commercial version of WBK exists but don't hold your breath.
More later as requested.
Earl F. Burkholder
