WEB GIS
In this newsletter we answer the who, what, when, where, why, and how of Web GIS.
WHAT IS WEB GIS?
Web GIS is simply a geographic information system (GIS) that is accessed through any web browser, such as Chrome or Internet Explorer. Modern Web GIS is becoming more accessible, easier to create and manage, cheaper to implement, and completely customizable. Most Web GIS created today can be accessed through browsers on desktops and mobile devices anywhere in the world, and can be updated in real-time. The cost to access data and host a GIS can be as low as pennies per month and customization is completely up to you!
WHY SHOULD I USE WEB GIS?
Web GIS leverages the power of cloud storage, mobile computing and the ever-increasing number of internet connected devices to provide unlimited access to your (and others') data. Typical Web GIS have huge benefits including the following:
1. Digitization and central inventory of infrastructure assets With a centralized, authoritative and up-to-date inventory, you can oversee all buried and above ground infrastructure including power, water, drainage and natural gas. Easily follow a power conduit from the transformer to an individual light pole or locate a specific valve needed to stop a leak.
2. Company-wide collaboration and engagement Open communication is vital to the forward progress of any project. When all your decision-makers have access to the same data and in real-time, you can drastically reduce decision making costs, improve response times and improve safety. Data can even be shared via mapping apps with customers, contractors, and field personnel.
3. Data security and improved data access With your data stored safely in the cloud, you can rest easy knowing that a power outage, computer virus, natural disaster or other accident will leave your data intact and available when and where you need it at all times.
4. Data analysis and integration Leverage the power of cloud computing to get the most out of all data sources. Web GIS have an unprecedented ability to amalgamate a variety of data types including vectors, rasters, cadastral and many others. Plan new routes, examine existing infrastructure, make data-rich maps and glean important spatial properties from your data at the press of a button.
Fig 1. Sample Map and Its Information Table
WHO, WHEN AND HOW?
Our solution is simple. Engage your organization to make a simple and useful Web GIS based on your needs and specifications. By digitizing utility data, infrastructure and other spatial assets, you can reduce the time and cost of retrieving important information, and get the information to those who need it faster and more efficiently. By merging 3D data with our aerial imagery and other remote sensing data we can create web maps that are useful and effective for decision makers and can be accessed from any computer, tablet or phone.
With data collection, digitization, and consolidation, OGL Engineering's team of skilled geomatics engineers can ensure that your data is in good hands.