The application of GIS (Geographic Information System) Cloud Computing is becoming more mainstream, and the concept is often linked with IoT (Internet of Things) business initiatives. Companies can merge GIS and IoT to combine the location of a device with other information.
An example of this at work is the setting of a switch being displayed on a map, providing context at a macro level, which enables users to obtain high levels of detail. This can be practically applied to allow businesses to enhance business procedures with informed decision making.
A GIS works with geographical data and is mainly concerned with the analysis, manipulation, and management in a spatial context, using information relating to different locations on earth. It is a useful tool for decision making and problem-solving, helping invested parties visualize data in spatial environments. Evolving GIS programs have unlocked impressive mapping capabilities.
The IoT involves devices that connect to the Internet, and how they interact in our everyday lives. This includes consumer items such as lamps, headphones, cell phones, and coffee makers. It also includes monitoring systems for infrastructure, where advancing technology is embedded with Internet connectivity.
Intertwining the two technologies addresses challenges associated with GIS, which is widely misunderstood. Businesses continue to gain a better understanding of geographical areas and patterns. They use these to understand where to store resources, build new facilities, and lay down power lines, and integrating the IoT further enhances practices.
An example of this in action is the way fleet drivers can share real-time vehicle diagnostics for improved GPS tracking, routing information and more.
Data collected from analysis paints an even better picture, yielding automatic reports that greatly assist assessments. Combining GIS Cloud Computing with IoT practices can make our world safer and more efficient, with practical applications including changing traffic light colors and locking gates through map manipulation based on gathered data.
Integrating GIS and IoT can create entirely new initiatives, change industries, and generate new practices altogether. A common philosophy discussed as a derivative of this is the ‘smart’ home.
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Geospatial and IoT
The geospatial industry has worked with the IoT for decades, providing various applications for devices that use of GPS and GIS technology. GIS data combined with geotechnical sensors can monitor motion in buildings, and detect geologic hazards in real time. This means workers can mitigate issues arising from structures moving during construction work.
Another example of the IoT at work relates to determining the exact location of a water pressure sensor to diagnose issues in a water distribution network. When customers report leaks, the company can combine addresses with locations and readings, and consequently pinpoint trouble spots and dispatch maintenance workers accordingly.
An advanced version of IoT and GIS at work in monitoring water infrastructure is Nobel Systems’ newly introduced IoT based water pressure monitoring framework. The system uses a triple bearer MicroPython enabled microcontroller and using the company’s GeoViewer mobile application, a water utility can view pressures at a glance throughout its network. If a leak occurs, the pressure drops and alerts the system operator through a push notification.
Spatial information plays a vital role in the railway industry, where sensors enable operators to manage the location of trains, allowing increased capacity and enhanced safety. Long-haul trucks use networks of IoT sensors to track vehicle location, monitor driver performance and send temperatures to fleet operators.
The combination of the GIS and IoT extends to agriculture, where GIS can provide a detailed analysis of crop harvests. This information can be used to remotely control machines, and optimize soil condition and seed planting.
As technology continues to advance in an ever-evolving business world, the integration of GIS and IoT will continue to expand. The capabilities arising from this marriage are endless, and its unlimited potential will be witnessed in multiple industries. As time goes by, geospatial information will play an increasingly significant role in both user interaction and operational decisions.
We hope you have found this article interesting, and have a better understanding of how GIS and IoT are integrated, with practical uses for various parties. If you have any questions or would just like to become part of the conversation, please comment below and kick-start the discussion.