Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference Handheld - Mobile GIS Application

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference What is a PDA? A PDA is a Personal Digital Assistant –Portable –Performs some function of a “computer” Fax Address Book Programs –Can be linked to other computers for synchronization

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference Apple created the first PDA in 1993 called the “Newton Message Pad”

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference In 2003/2004 (18 months), over 3 million Palm Handheld Computers were sold. Fact

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference PDA versus Handheld Computer PDA –Digital Address Book –Personal Organizer –Phone Handheld Computer –GPS Unit –Software –Computing

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference Why use a Handheld Computer? Access to data instantaneously Field data collection Portability Efficiency –Less Duplicate Efforts –Less Transcription Errors –Accuracy of Locations and Data

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference Handheld Computer Capabilities Most software have Handheld versions –Databases –Spreadsheets –Word Processors – –Internet –GIS –GPS Linking to Desktop Computers –Docking station –Connection –Download/Upload –Synchronizing

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference Which Handheld is right for me? Select based on your needs –Size Computer literacy Vision Coordination –Operating System –Software –Capabilities Hard drive size/RAM –Attachments External Monitor/Keyboard GPS Unit

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference Tips on maintenance of Handheld Devices Always charge Handheld when not in use –Data loss can happen if unit loses charge Always transfer data to the desktop/network after use Don’t overload the hard drive and/or RAM Most PDA’s are rugged but use proper care Use screen protectors for your PDA

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference What Is Mobile “GIS”? Mobile GIS is the ability to take the capabilities of a GIS with you to remote or mobile locations.

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference What Is Mobile “GIS”? Police/Fire/EMS vehicle based locational computer systems Navigational systems in vehicles OnStar ® XY Golf ® GPS System

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference What Is Mobile “GIS”? Mobile GIS can be, –Static Data –Streaming Wireless Internet Based Data

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference Why Use Mobile “GIS”? Maps and Data At Your Fingertips Cost Effective Operations Real-time Management of Assets Coordination/Scheduling Locating/Maintaining Reporting Analysis and Informed Decision Making

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference What Device Do I Use? Ruggedized Laptops and Tablet PC’s –Rugged Handheld Pocket PC’s –Convenient –Compact –Cost Effective GPS Units –Integrate GPS/GIS

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference How Do I Implement A Mobile Application ? Define Your Needs –“Compact” Needs Analysis –Process –Define Inputs –Define Outputs –Backup –Accuracy Define Users and Environment –Who –When

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference How Do I Implement A Mobile Application ? Select Unit and Software –Flexibility –Growth –Change –Multi-Use

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference How Do I Implement A Mobile Application ? Develop Layers –Use Existing Layers Syncronization –Develop New Layers Develop Database –Input From GIS Layers –Output To Reporting Agencies –Output to Property Owners –Reports for Tracking –Reports for Committee Review –KEEP IT SIMPLE!!!

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference Examples Of Mobile Applications Sidewalk Maintenance Inventory –Mobile application for linking sidewalk maintenance needs to parcel mapping Storm Sewer Inspection/Inventory –Mobile application for completing the inspection of outfalls for Phase II Permitting –Links to Internet application for creating and submitting permits and tracking the improvements Building Inspection Application –Mobile application for linking building permits to parcel mapping and building footprints

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference Jon Schwichtenberg GIS Leader – SEH Madison, WI