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Mobile GIS: using your enterprise GIS in the field
Andrew Harrington
Trimble Navigation New Zealand Limited
11 Birmingham Drive
Christchurch, New Zealand
Phone: +64 3 9635 637 Fax: +64 3 9635 488
Email: Andrew.Harrington@trimble.co.nz
Greg Lauer
Trimble Navigation New Zealand Limited
11 Birmingham Drive
Christchurch, New Zealand
Phone: +64 3 9635 002 Fax: +64 3 9635 488
Email: greg.lauer@trimble.co.nz
Abstract
The desire to access information anywhere, anytime has never been stronger. Consumers look for the same Internet experience they have come to know, but on a mobile platform. Professional clientele look towards mobile platforms to increase productivity through efficient information handling, resulting in cost reduction, as well as a well-informed mobile workforce. The expansion of the Enterprise GIS into the field is taking place, but there is still confusion about how to piece together the broad spectrum of services and technologies that make up the Mobile GIS solution.
This paper considers the essential elements and characteristics that make up a platform for Mobile GIS operations. It highlights the significance of GPS in the context of other hardware and software requirements, including its integration with the underlying operating system, levels of ruggedness and the operation of GPS within the Mobile GIS application software. This paper provides insight and direction to make it easier to piece together the platform for your Mobile GIS solution.
Introduction
Mobile GIS is a term that’s being used more frequently within the geospatial industry. Geographic information systems (GIS), and their application, have been around for long enough now that they are well understood. The concept of mobility is also something we are all familiar with, but our understanding of mobile GIS - its application, structure and operation – is still very much in its infancy.
While our understanding of mobile GIS may be in its infancy, the components that make up an operable mobile GIS are becoming more apparent and available. The industry is gaining a better understanding of how mobile GIS will be used for everyday applications, but the interaction of the components is still developing.
This paper investigates the various components within a mobile GIS and considers the way they will interact from an operational perspective. It highlights the environment required to expand the use of enterprise GIS directly in the field.
Expanding the enterprise
In understanding mobile GIS, it is useful to consider the changes that have occurred within the broad context of GIS. With this understanding, the role mobile GIS have in expanding the accessibility of GIS will become apparent for future activities.
The operation of GIS in the formative years was largely restricted to the domain of technically skilled operators. GIS professionals did everything from building database, through to complex spatial analysis and cartographic design. Operations were generally confined to powerful, standalone computers, with the GIS database managed and maintained as a totally separate component within an organisation. GIS professionals generally carried out their tasks on behalf of others within the organisation.
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