Internet based GIS solutions

Howard County Property GIS
Howard County maintains its GIS property data in an Intergraph MGE system. Over the years, Howard County has developed a comprehensive parcel vector dataset using Bentley Systems MicroStation. Using GeoMedia WEB Map, Howard County is publishing its MGE based GIS map and attributes on the Internet. This web application is used to facilitate the retrieval of the assessment data making use of a snapshot of the GIS database. Users can query for specific GIS data, build maps, and output reports from their web browser.

As an example, a user may query for a location by keying in an address. The textual results are displayed in the Query/Report frame and maps are displayed in the Map Frame at predefine zoom level with a highlight placed on the queried feature. Reports can be generated by selecting features on the Active CGM Map. Standard view control buttons (zoom in, zoom out, zoom window, pan in the map frame) are available from the browser to adjust the map view.

Maryland Property GIS – MdProperty online
A good example of using ESRI MapObjects technology to publish sizable GIS datasets on the Internet is MdProperty Online. The application demonstrates a convenient, user-friendly and perhaps the most affordable way to access current, reliable Maryland property data on the Internet. MdProperty View data, which is the most accurate and current database compiled by the Maryland Office of Planning, is used in conjunction with optimized database formats and queries. With any connection to the Internet, you can obtain property information by simple key-in criteria(s) such as: Owner Name, Address, Street Name, House Number, Map Number and Account ID.

Search results will be shown as a list of properties that match your criteria(s). Each property is linked to a property profile report containing detailed structure, taxes, and sales information. In addition to the ability to view a neighborhood sales report and property maps, you can also click on any property displayed on the screen for review. MdProperty Online is designed to locate the target property quickly and print the detailed information. It is a good example of allowing point and click technology on a map to obtain information about neighborhood properties.

Potomac Electric Power Companv (PEPCO) Utilitv Online
Potomac Electric Power Company (PEPCO) maintains its utility maps in MicroStation DGN files. Information for the devices is stored in an ORACLE database. Model Server Discovery is used to publish the GIS data from a Geographic project into JPEG, SVF or CGM format. A set of web pages is developed with JavaScript to allow user to publish any map grid in the service area. A Java viewing applet is used as a thick client to accomplish GIS-like functionality such as spatial queries, customized SQL queries, map display management, etc. This implementation enables remote offices to view desired utility maps and data associated with the objects on the map.

Howard Countv Road Pavement Inventorv
In connection with the Howard County Roadway Pavement Management project, CADDScan has developed an Internet GIS solution integrating GPS and wireless CDPD communication.

This solution demonstrates the use of GPS and wireless communication to access remote database and GIS servers in real-time. The map display on the field computer dynamically updates while the user is traveling. When GIS objects are queried, field users receive the most updated information directly from the corporate server. All the field users need is a browser and a small optional GPS interface ActiveX control. In addition to GIS, this solution also provides real-time communications between the home office and the remote locations.

Conclusions
Computer and communication technologies will continue to encourage Internet GIS implementations. With a wireless modem (costing as low as $30 a month), remote users can access an Internet based GIS database with unlimited connection time. The GIS industry is fortunate to see major GIS vendors offering programmable objects and controls allowing other applications to include GIS capabilities. In the next few years, the ability to access GIS from the Internet and the feasibility to integrate GIS with other applications and devices will broaden the scope of current mapping systems and allow GIS to reach a much wider audience.

It wasn’t too long ago when we were proud of operating on a 386 20Mhz computer with 40MB of hard disk space and Bill Gates was skeptical of the Internet’s potential. But now, computers are running several hundred times faster, and Mr. Gates is fighting to gain more share of the Internet market. Internet related technologies are destined to elevate GIS to a level we can only imagine. That time will surely come sooner than anticipated.