PointID

PointID refers to a unique identifier assigned to a point feature within a data set or data structure. It is used across geographic information systems, CAD models, 3D point clouds, and graph representations to distinctly reference a single point.

In GIS, PointID is often implemented as a field in the attribute table that stores a numeric or alphanumeric value. It ensures that other attributes, measurements, or relationships can be linked to the precise point even if coordinates change due to editing or projection.

In practice, PointID may be generated automatically by a database as an auto-incremented key or assigned by the import process. It may be immutable or re-generated after data import, depending on workflow. Best practices: keep PointID stable; export with data; avoid reusing IDs.

Relation to other concepts: In spatial databases, PointID functions like a primary key or vertex identifier. In point cloud data, a PointID may be used to index a point's position, color, intensity, and other attributes.

Limitations and management: If a dataset is transformed or merged, PointIDs may not be preserved; ensure that IDs are stored as a separate attribute and accompanied by a mapping if needed.

See also: unique identifier, primary key, object ID, feature ID.