Mobile GIS

Definition

Mobile Geographic Information System, abbreviated as Mobile GIS, is a geographic information system that is capable of capturing, storing, analyzing, processing, and presenting geospatial data and information which can be accessed on handheld mobile devices. It is an extension of traditional GIS that leverages mobile technology to enable field personnel to receive, collect, analyze, and update geographical information on the go.

Unlike traditional GIS, Mobile GIS operations are not restricted to a single location. Instead, they can be carried out wherever the end user is located thanks to the global positioning and wireless network capabilities. This mobility facilitates field-based decision making, increases efficiency, improves operational coordination, and enhances data collection.

What is Mobile GIS?

Mobile GIS integrates GIS, GPS (Global Positioning System), and BDS (BeiDou Navigation Satellite System), wirelessly connected to the world of GIS databases and maps. It is a tool that displays, edits, captures, and stores geospatial information on mobile devices for fieldworkers, allowing them to perform and manage their tasks more efficiently and effectively.

Mobile GIS technology is mainly used for data collection, field inspection, asset management, and emergency response operations. It links geographic data (location based) with asset or project information (attribute based) into a user-friendly system that enables field workers to easily access, analyze and update geospatial data.

For example, during a field inspection, field workers can use Mobile GIS to locate a specific asset on a map, view relevant details about that asset, edit the information, and send back these changes to the central database for real-time updating. As a result, Mobile GIS significantly improves the quality of the acquired data and shortens the response time, which is critical in many application scenarios.

FAQs

What is the importance of Mobile GIS?

Mobile GIS plays a critical role in modern society as it allows for the seamless collection and analysis of geographic information on the go. It boosts productivity, accelerates decision-making processes, supports real-time communication, improves data accuracy, and enhances customer service.

What devices are typically used in Mobile GIS?

Typical devices used in Mobile GIS include smartphones, tablets, and other handheld mobile devices equipped with GPS capabilities. These devices need to have a mapping software or app installed to access, analyze, and update the geospatial data.

What industries utilize Mobile GIS?

Mobile GIS is utilized across multiple industries including urban planning, real estate, construction, environmental management, transportation, public utilities, military, emergency response, and agriculture among others. Basically, any industry that relies on field data for decision-making can benefit from Mobile GIS.

How is Mobile GIS different from traditional GIS?

Unlike traditional GIS that is desk-based, Mobile GIS leverages the power of mobile technology, allowing GIS operations to be carried out onsite. This ensures real-time data collection, editing and sharing, making the process more efficient and timely.