Two of the most cutting-edge technologies to hit Australian shores this year were unveiled last week at Ozri 2012

– Australasia’s largest Geographic Information System (GIS) conference. CitySourced, a mobile civic engagement tool, and earthmine, a 3D imagery product, have taken the IT world by storm – and according to MapData Services General Manager Cassandra Barker, will transform the way the public sector engages with the broader community. “CitySourced and earthmine are helping businesses and governments worldwide generate higher levels of public participation and facilitate improved operational efficiencies,” said Ms Barker.

“Thousands of councils and government departments across the country already use mapping technology in their day-to-day business operations - whether it’s to manage their assets, analyse their data or simply help ratepayers locate essential services. “The efficiencies driven through the adoption of these technologies has in turn sparked a new wave of software innovations, aiming to push the GIS envelope. “Products such as CitySourced and earthmine create a dynamic, interactive experience that puts the user at the centre of the picture – and I believe these technologies will effectively rewrite the book on how councils and alike can govern. “We’re talking about capabilities like reporting graffiti by taking a photo on your phone; performing asset audits in a 3D digital world; or having ‘virtual reality’ tours available online – for many professionals, these are concepts that were once considered mere pipedreams.”

City Sourced is an ingenious new mobile application that uses location-based crowd sourcing technology to allow users to send photos, video or audio clips directly to authorities and service providers. earthmine is a technology that transform static data into compelling 3D imagery allowing users to shape and experience a dynamic virtual world. Both technologies are available through MapData Services, Australia’s leading digital mapping and data specialist. Hosted by Esri Australia, the market leader in Australia’s $2.1 billion spatial industry, Ozri 2012 is the leading spatial conference in the Asia Pacific. In addition to presenting a number of local and international case studies drawing on these technologies, MapData Services conducted live demonstrations.