[mapserver-users] Scripted geoprocessing

[Sam Skinner]

Hi all,
I am writing a python script that will (weekly) download and extract 
data (shapefiles) from an organization without a WMS or WFS. This script 
will reside on my linux-based mapserver (5.6). I am looking for a way 
for this script to dissolve polygons with a common attribute. This will 
help rendering speed and ease of visualization. Any ideas on how I could 
do this? From what I understand (which isn't much!), I could import the 
data into PostGIS, then run some query there. Is there a simpler way? Is 
anyone familiar with Sextante, and would that work?

Thanks!

-- 
Sam Skinner (Mapserver admin and newbie)
Yukon Land Use Planning Council