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DeliciousSummary:
Sybase is developing architectures for its SQL Anywhere data management solution that will allow for the mobilization of spatial data from ESRI’s ArcGIS Server to laptop, tablet, Windows mobile, iPhone and BlackBerry devices. Jason Hinsperger, the SQL Anywhere product manager, explains how Sybase will support the geospatial market in this brief interview.
Jason Hinsperger (JH): SQL Anywhere will support the OGC specification for spatial data. Our server and embedded database (SQL Anywhere) will support the standard geometry types, the ability to index spatial data, and to query it using the standard set of functions described in the spec. SQL Anywhere will also support import for shape files natively, as well as native export for KML, GML and SVG. Our mobile database (UltraLite) will support storage and editing of point data, along with a subset of the standard set of spatial functions.
Both will support the ability to synchronize spatial data to heterogeneous enterprise database servers using our MobiLink synchronization server.
DM: Please explain the bi-directional synchronization of spatial and standard data between field workers and many popular enterprise systems. Will this be a real-time connection between field workers and the database or a "sometimes connected" solution?
JH: Data synchronization is designed for occasionally connected environments. If there is no connection, remote workers can continue to work unimpeded because of the local database. When connectivity is available, synchronization can occur.
DM: What ESRI applications for mobile field professionals are you supporting and are they limited to only a few smartphones or will most of the popular smartphones be supported?
JH: Initially, we are developing architectures which will allow for the mobilization of spatial data from ArcGIS server to laptop, tablet, Windows mobile, iPhone and BlackBerry devices.
DM: Will Sybase be developing a suite of applications using ESRI technology to deploy to field workers, and what might those be?
JH: We are providing infrastructure technology to enable ESRI partners and users to extend the reach of their GIS data. There is no current plan to offer specific point solutions.
DM: What additional types of mobile applications that leverage spatial information would you foresee in the next two years?
JH: The use of spatial data by "casual" users will grow significantly, especially in the consumer space, with data collection being "outsourced" to the general public.
In the enterprise, the requirement to enable remote workers to access more complex elements of their GIS in a timely fashion, regardless of connectivity, will become more important to business success.
