Vector data
Vector data is by far the most common geospatial format because it is the most efficient way to store spatial information, and in general requires less computer resources to store and process than raster data. The Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) has over 16 formats directly related to vector data. Vector data stores only geometric primitives including points, lines, and polygons. But only the points are stored for each type of shape. For example, in the case of a simple straight vector line shape, only the end points would be necessarily stored and defined as a line. Software displaying that data would read the shape type, and then connect the end points with a line dynamically.
Geospatial vector data is similar to the concept of vector computer graphics with some notable exceptions. Geospatial vector data contains positive and negative Earth-based coordinates, while vector graphics typically store computer screen coordinates. Geospatial vector data is also usually linked to...
