Japanese Municipality Conducts Field Surveys Using GIS on iPads

Mobile GIS Enhancing Municipal Field Operations

The City of Tamba in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, has modernized its field data collection processes by deploying a mobile geographic information system (GIS) application designed specifically for Apple iPad devices. The application, known as Mobile Matilda, was developed by Tsukasa Consulting using TatukGIS development tools and the Embarcadero FireMonkey framework. It works in conjunction with desktop and web-based versions of the Matilda platform, allowing seamless integration between field observations and centralized GIS databases.

Offline Mapping and Flexible Data Synchronization

A key advantage of the mobile system is its ability to function without continuous internet connectivity. Map layers and spatial datasets are stored locally on the tablet, allowing survey teams to collect and edit information in remote locations. Once a secure Wi-Fi or cellular connection becomes available, collected data can be synchronized with office-based systems or central servers. The underlying GIS framework supports efficient storage of large datasets using SQLite databases, ensuring that extensive geographic layers can be managed directly on mobile devices.

The application also supports hybrid mapping workflows by allowing web-based content—such as OpenStreetMap background tiles—to be streamed when network access is available.

Supporting Municipal Asset Management

Field surveys conducted by Tamba’s municipal teams frequently involve documenting infrastructure and property-related information, including vacant residential buildings and solar power installations. Monitoring abandoned properties is an important public safety priority, while accurate inventory of renewable energy facilities is required to validate eligibility for government incentive programs.

Prior to adopting the mobile GIS solution, field workers relied on paper maps, cameras, and manual recordkeeping. Information gathered in the field then had to be manually transferred to office systems, a process that required significant time and introduced opportunities for errors or incomplete data entry.

Real-Time Data Capture and Workflow Improvements

With Mobile Matilda, surveyors can record observations directly on digital maps while on site. Photographs captured using the iPad’s built-in camera—or connected panoramic imaging devices—are automatically linked to geographic features. Field staff can create new spatial points, adjust their locations, add attribute information, and specify directional details such as viewing angles. Preconfigured assignments allow users to access relevant property records quickly by selecting features directly on the tablet interface.

The integrated GPS functionality enables automatic centering of the map to the user’s current position, simplifying navigation and ensuring accurate geolocation of newly collected data.

Advancing Digital Field Survey Practices

By shifting from paper-based methods to mobile GIS workflows, the City of Tamba has significantly improved the efficiency, accuracy, and usability of its field survey operations. The combination of offline mapping capabilities, real-time data entry, and seamless synchronization with enterprise GIS systems demonstrates how mobile technologies can enhance municipal asset management, public safety monitoring, and infrastructure documentation processes.