Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference

Handheld - Mobile

GIS Application

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference

What is a PDA?What is a PDA?

• A PDA is a Personal Digital Assistant– Portable– Performs some function of a “computer”

• Fax• Address Book• Email• 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.

In 2003/2004 (18 months), over 3 million Palm

Handheld Computers were sold.

Fact

Wisconsin Land Information Association Annual Conference

PDA versus Handheld ComputerPDA 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?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 CapabilitiesHandheld Computer Capabilities

• Most software have Handheld versions – Databases– Spreadsheets– Word Processors– Email– 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?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 DevicesTips 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”?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”?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”?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”?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?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 ?

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 ?

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 ?

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 ApplicationsExamples 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 SchwichtenbergJon SchwichtenbergGIS Leader – SEHGIS Leader – SEH

Madison, WIMadison, WI608.274.2020608.274.2020