GeoPackage Webinar: Open Standard for Mobile Geospatial Applications

GeoPackage is an open geospatial data standard designed to make spatial information easier to use in modern applications—particularly on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Built on SQLite, it provides a compact, self-contained database format that allows developers to store and access geographic data directly within mobile environments.

This upcoming webinar introduces the GeoPackage standard and explores how developers can implement it in practical, real-world applications. The session is structured to give both technical and strategic insight into how the format works, where it fits within existing GIS ecosystems, and why it matters for mobile-first development.

What You Will Learn

Participants will gain a clear understanding of how GeoPackage enables lightweight mobile applications to combine locally stored spatial data with powerful cloud-based location services. The format supports seamless integration between offline resources and remote services, giving application developers flexibility without sacrificing performance.

The webinar also examines how GeoPackage operates in low-connectivity scenarios. In environments where internet access is unreliable, intermittent, or entirely unavailable, applications can continue functioning because map data and feature layers are stored directly on the device. This capability is particularly critical in field operations and emergency contexts.

Attendees will also learn how the GeoPackage standard supports mobile workforce data capture, enabling teams in the field to collect, edit, and synchronize geospatial information efficiently. In emergency response scenarios, having reliable offline map access can significantly improve situational awareness and operational coordination.

Another focus area is interoperability. GeoPackage APIs promote cross-platform compatibility, allowing applications and web services to exchange geospatial data more easily across different operating systems and development environments. This reduces dependency on proprietary solutions and fosters collaboration between organizations.

Why GeoPackage Matters

Professionals in public safety, public works, transportation, and disaster management frequently operate in environments where network coverage cannot be guaranteed. When connectivity fails, access to mission-critical mapping data can be disrupted. In these cases, spatial data must reside locally on mobile devices to ensure continuity of operations.

Many traditional GIS applications rely on proprietary data formats that can be costly and difficult to share across agencies or departments. GeoPackage addresses these limitations by offering an open, standardized format that simplifies data exchange and reduces vendor lock-in.

Because the standard is based on SQLite—a widely adopted database engine—developers who are not geospatial specialists can implement GeoPackage without deep domain expertise. This lowers barriers to entry and accelerates the development of innovative, cost-effective location-based solutions for government and enterprise users.

For IT managers in government agencies, the OGC GeoPackage standard presents an opportunity to reduce expenses while improving collaboration. By adopting a shared, open framework for geospatial data, organizations can streamline workflows, enhance interoperability, and deliver better services to stakeholders.

Speakers

The webinar features experienced leaders in geospatial technology and software development:

• Jeff Harrison, President, CEO, and Founder of The Crbon Project
• Frank Suykens, Chief Technology Officer at Luciad
• Marten Hogeweg, Esri
• Their combined expertise spans open standards, enterprise GIS platforms, and mission-critical geospatial applications.
• Who Should Attend

This session is designed for government officials responsible for defining requirements for location-based solutions, as well as technology providers and developers who build and implement those systems. Anyone involved in mobile GIS, public sector technology planning, emergency management, or cross-platform application development will benefit from the insights presented.