GIS Trends at the Esri UC

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The latest trends are underground.

By Linda Hecht, 51by1

Today’s modern GIS platform is flexible. The underlying advancements of server technology, standards and interoperability give GIS professionals control of their systems like never before. The growth of open source GIS, fast and beautiful base maps, imagery, sensor data, web services and Location Intelligence provides more options for crafting an integrated platform that supports a variety of needs and budgets.  Modern GIS providers are embracing this change. Traditional GIS vendors are doubling down on closed, proprietary and expensive platforms to their peril. 

The new paradigm for implementing a modern GIS is flexibility, openness, usability and quality. One company who understands this is Pitney Bowes. Known in the GIS community as the makers of MapInfo, they offer a suite of products that breaks the old-fashioned view of GIS. By taking a user-first approach, they have the data, applications and APIs that are the hub of a flexible and powerful GIS.

While back office GIS tools are the powerhouse that built the GIS foundations we have today, and MapInfo is one of those tools, Pitney Bowes recognizes that you have to break free of past to embrace the future. So, what does that mean?

●     Intuitive GIS desktop solutions built with users in mind, such that they do not have to be reengineered to support new use cases, disrupting workflows and processes. Beyond mapping, systems must flexibly provide data entry and management, mapping, and analysis.

●     Powerful big data tools certified on leading platform that can derive meaningful, accurate results for data quality, geospatial processing, location analytics, and geoenrichment at the speed of business.

●     Mobile first mentality that leverages the device's users want to use. Designing apps that are powerful but simple. One mobile strategy from the beginning means a seamless solution for end users.

●     Web mapping that fits harmoniously into workflows, containing powerful data and analysis capabilities. Web mapping should not be something that is forced on users.

●     Tools that enable data scientist and business analysts by naturally integrating with their chosen Business Intelligence systems. This enables the layering of external and business data to improve analysis capabilities, as well as overlaying visualizations such as heat maps, isochrones and custom boundaries.

●     Start with the philosophy of open first. Build open API’s, embrace standards and listen to your users.

In July, many GIS users have an opportunity to explore better ways to achieve the outcomes their organizations demand at the Esri UC. In addition to the standard tracks at the conference, there are some great alternative solutions on display via at what many call the UC Underground evening socials. One provider that I am interested in is Pitney Bowes which is having their underground event in San Diego on Tuesday, July 11, from 7pm - 10pm at the Rustic Root.

Come by and chat about GIS and how their offerings can fit into and expand your existing systems. Having co-created many of their solutions with leading firms across many industries, they are open to your ideas and suggestions.  Plus, there will be awesome food and drinks. Claim your spot by RSVP. I hope to see you there! 


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