The design of spatial systems for internal migration analysis

Abstract

Masser I. (1976) The design of spatial systems for internal migration analysis, Reg. Studies 10, 39–52. To overcome the accounting problems that have hitherto inhibited studies of migration which include both intraregional and interregional flows, spatial systems must be defined in terms of two or more levels of resolution. The basic framework of migration analysis in a two level spatial system is described in general terms and its value is illustrated by reference to an analysis of internal migration in the Netherlands during 1969. In studies of this kind special consideration must be given to the development of special aggregation procedures for identifying the migration sub-systems that are used in the accounting framework and conventional models of spatial interaction must be reformulated to take account of two level systems. The results of the Dutch study draw attention to some limitations in the spatial system that is currently used for accounting purposes in the Netherlands and demonstrate the flexibility of the two level spatial interaction model in situations of this kind.

Keywords:

• Spatial interaction
• Internal migration
• Zoning systems
• Aggregation problems
• Two-level accounting systems
• The Netherlands