Wireless GIS - Reasons and methods to create general access to enterprise GIS for field workers
The Value of Wireless
Despite the cost of delivering data to the field wirelessly, there are significant efficiencies that can be
achieved from using wireless communications for some applications. In the case of field services, such as
utilities and telecommunications in the private sector and public safety agencies in the public sector, the
delivery of real-time information via wireless networks can have a dramatic result. A good example for
each of these sectors is the value of wireless access to backend geographic information systems (GIS).
Real-time access to the information stored in these systems can allow field workers to provide better and
more prompt service which, in one sector, results in lower operating costs and in another sector, saves
lives.
Telecommunications and utility companies require that their networks be repaired as quickly as possible
both for business and public safety reasons. When an element of these networks fails, companies need to
respond as quickly as possible. One way of assuring a quick response is to have field worker’s current
locations posted to the GIS via wireless communications. When an element of the network fails, the GIS
can automatically identify not only the field crew closest to the failure, but, if the vehicle’s inventory is
included in the database, the system will identify which crew is best equipped to respond to the event.
Some GIS such as GE Smallworld, allow for this level of granularity. With wireless access to field crew
location information using GPS, system failures can be addressed in a timely manner, not only saving
money but also improving service.
Live, wireless access to GIS has significant value for government agencies as well. Fire departments can
access information on building ownership, hazardous materials licenses, and the proximity of necessary
water sources during fires. Access to this information allows fire departments to respond more efficiently
and in a safer fashion. The collection of information by public health officials can also be served by
wireless data communications. In cases of infectious disease control, some diseases can spread fairly
quickly and so time becomes an important factor in collecting and analyzing the information public health
field workers need. If mathematical models of a virulent infection are updated via wireless data collection
from the field, hours and even days may be shaved from finding the source and determining the pattern of
an infection outbreak.
Simplify the Process
The mobilization of data will result in significant returns on investment by quickly creating demonstrable
operational efficiencies. In most cases, tremendous reductions in operating expenses can be achieved by
giving mobile workers access to enterprise information while in the field. This can be achieved for a
relatively small cost by digitizing the information flow in both directions and giving field workers access
to the data via mobile computing devices. The use of wireless data communications can offer additional
value by increasing the rate at which information moves, but this value is only for information that has a
strong temporal component. Staging the implementation of mobile applications and application features
can reduce the complexity of developing and implementing a mobile data strategy. Additionally
deploying applications by staging their introduction allows financial analysts to determine the cost benefit
of each mobile application. Developing a mobile data strategy can be a daunting task, however, delivering
enterprise information to mobile workers will produce a significant ROI and create new efficiencies that
allow the organization to become more competitive.
