Links List 10.3.08

VectorOne posed the question whether or not geospatial technology could drive political consensus on environmental issues. Environmental issues such as flooding, disease, conservation, and/or water quality require top geographic information, spatial analysis and integration. The GIS and spatial technologies industry should assist anyone making decisions to better understand these issues and make informed decisions based on intelligent information and geodata.

Geodata is not available to all – the Farm Bill (H.R. 6126) prevents the FSA from providing geospatial information to the public. Visit Surveying, Mapping and GIS for more details about what Sec. 1619 Information Gathering entails.

Google Maps is still number one. Cowen & Co., an industry analyst firm specializing in covering Web services, found Google Maps as the “de facto leader” in the online mapping solutions space. The analyst firm stated the competitors’ lack of innovation gave Google its success. They also cited Google’s Streetview and public transportation services as main reasons for success.

Geocoding can provide vital information to marketers. Appending demographic census track data to latitude and longitude coordinates is critical for businesses targeting demographics. Many businesses are using Geocoding as a local search tool, a routing tool, and as a store locator.

Florida tries to coordinates a statewide effort for GIS. This is the fourth time the state tried to develop a coordinating body. With the active Atlantic hurricane seasons, and the death of 208 residents, the state realized that coordination of geospatial information during the hurricanes would have saved lives. The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) is taking the lead in formulating a statewide GIS strategic plan.