Transforming GIS Management: Key Insights from Industry Leaders
In a recent webinar, GIS industry veteran David Bradshaw, CEO of InteractiveGIS, shared valuable insights on streamlining GIS operations and addressing common challenges faced by GIS professionals. The session, moderated by David Bush, Owner/President of BDR, offered practical solutions for organizations looking to enhance their GIS capabilities and efficiency.
Data Management in the Modern GIS Landscape
According to Bradshaw, one of the most pressing challenges GIS managers face today is data overload. As GIS becomes increasingly central to decision-making across departments, organizations struggle with maintaining accurate, up-to-date information. The key to managing this challenge lies in maintaining data clarity and implementing efficient update processes.
“Data has to be at such a small level, such a detailed piece of information at that tiniest level, so that it can be aggregated up to answer questions,” Bradshaw explained. This granular approach ensures that data can serve multiple purposes across different departments while maintaining accuracy and reliability.
Streamlining Workflows with Web-Based Solutions
A major focus of the discussion centered on the importance of web-based GIS solutions. Bradshaw emphasized that pushing data to the web, whether for registered users or public access, can significantly reduce workload and improve efficiency. This approach allows organizations to:
- Provide self-service access to information
- Reduce phone calls and information requests
- Maintain better control over data visualization
- Ensure consistency in data presentation
Innovation in GIS Technology
The webinar highlighted several exciting technological developments, including a new mobile application that leverages iPhone LiDAR technology for manhole inspections. This innovation allows maintenance teams to create detailed 3D mesh models of infrastructure without physical entry, demonstrating how accessible technology can transform traditional inspection processes.
Best Practices for GIS Management
Several key recommendations emerged for GIS managers looking to optimize their operations:
- Maintain centralized data management to prevent fragmentation
- Implement automation for routine tasks
- Focus on data clarity and simplicity
- Ensure information is accessible within three clicks
- Invest time in proper workflow setup for long-term efficiency
Future Trends and Opportunities
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, Bradshaw identified several emerging trends:
- Increased focus on ISO compliance for improved loan rates for cities and towns
- Growing importance of GIS in building permits and inspections
- Rising demand for dashboard-based information delivery
- Enhanced integration of real-time data updates
- Emphasis on simplified spatial insights
The InteractiveGIS Approach
What sets InteractiveGIS apart is their commitment to understanding client needs before proposing solutions. “We don’t just take the geodatabase or the goal of what they want to do,” Bradshaw noted. “We try to ask questions about what they’re initially thinking about using this to answer, and what potential things they’d like to answer.”
The company offers a low-risk evaluation process, allowing potential clients to test-drive solutions with their own data before making any commitments. This approach, combined with responsive support and ongoing training, helps ensure successful implementation and long-term success.
Taking the Next Step
For organizations looking to transform their GIS operations, InteractiveGIS offers a free “8 Essentials Guide” that covers key trends and considerations in GIS management. Interested professionals can download this resource from the InteractiveGIS website to evaluate their current systems and explore potential improvements.
As GIS continues to evolve, staying ahead of trends and maintaining efficient operations becomes increasingly crucial. Through proper planning, strategic implementation, and partnership with experienced providers, organizations can transform their GIS operations to meet current and future challenges.
Miss this webinar and want to catch the replay? Check it out here.
Wishing you and yours a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
