What are some of the most advanced and specialized GIS tools and applications?

In my career, I've embraced the realm of 3D GIS, engaging with models like DSM, DTM, and BIM. Notably, during my involvement in the Dholera city project, I played a pivotal role within a team that seamlessly integrated a complete building REVIT model into a 3D GIS environment. This integration extended to attributing each component of the 3D model, equipping it with critical data for monitoring and maintenance purposes—spanning manufacturing dates, OEM details, expiry information, and more. Furthermore, in another project, we harnessed DEM data to analyze the significance of "Pagdandi," a walk-through in Shimla city. This endeavour underscored how 3D perspectives breathe new life into GIS data for specific problem-solving.

“It’s hard to see the mountains on a flat piece of paper” one of my agency partners once said. Utilizing 3D visualization can help to tell your story by allowing viewers to see the topography or digital surface models. Integrating virtual reality can place your viewer directly inside of the map, which can be especially impactful for disaster damage visualization. Additional features such as 3D printing can allow even further comprehension of a vertically complex environment.

It's very useful tool to select the best variant of electrical transmission line. The output of some survey equipments like laser scanner and LIDAR images can use this method to analyze optimum rout. Besides, this capability can be join with PLS-CADD to enhance interpretation of surface topographic model.

Most of GIS tools operate on the 2.5D space, by assuming a single <z> value for each <x,y> coordinates pair, while the 3D support is only for visual representation. On the other hand 3D GIS fully exploit the 3D space in terms of computation, filling the gap between BIM and GIS and integrating urban and building data management. Because of higher computational costs for 3D spatial analyses its software implementation and application to databases is still limited.

ESRI ArcGIS Pro stands out as a comprehensive GIS software suite with advanced spatial analysis tools, 3D visualization capabilities, and seamless integration with various data sources, serving industries from urban planning to environmental management. Additionally, ESRI provides pretrained models and tools tailored for specific industries, such as prebuilt models for land cover classification or predictive modeling in agriculture. ESRI offers ArcGIS Online, a cloud based platform that provides a range of tools and applications such as Web AppBuilder and Story Maps. Moreover, ArcGIS Online features Survey123, a mobile data collection app that allows users to create surveys for field data collection.

In my 12-year career, I have had the privilege of closely working with web GIS applications due to my strong technology background and curiosity to explore new advancements. Over the years, I've been involved in several significant web GIS projects, Through these experiences, I've come to appreciate the profound impact of web GIS in making critical decisions for sustainability, economic growth, and effective urban planning. The ability to harness geospatial data and convert it into actionable insights has transformed how we approach challenges and opportunities in various regions. As I reflect on my journey, it's evident that web GIS is an indispensable tool that empowers us to better understand and shape the landscapes we inhabit.

A geographic information system (GIS) consists of integrated computer hardware and software that store, manage, analyze, edit, output, and visualize geographic data. GIS mapping tools are often divided into four categories: desktop, web, server and specialized. Esri ArcGIS Pro and QGIS are the most used tool.

I have started to work with web GIS recently. Its refreshingly robust and I like the fact that we can work with huge..I mean huge datasets easily and very fast. One can easily learn on the go as well. For example, with the help of Google earth engine, we can smoothy process big data and after downloading the processed layers, it can be published as web layer for the public. Of course you have to validate and monitor the data carefully before publishing, but multiple experts can enrich those layers with their collective knowledge at once using webGIS. I deal with satellite images since 2010 & we had to download and properly store huge datasets and it took lot of time.. In contrast, webGIS is too efficient, fast and cloud based.

Web GIS one of the advanced and specialized GIS tool. I have woked on the ArcGIS StoryMaps and learned Arcade expression to customized the pop-window. Where I added before and after demolished affordable houses pictures, short audio, short audio scripts and addresses. It's cloud computing based application with interactive web map application. The purpose of the project was to present the Life Stories of Displacement voices of people had suffered and those voices had been silenced. Affordable houses were demolished on particular area and displacement in the gentrification process spurred by the construction of LRT.

In a remote geological quest, Web GIS proved the ultimate ally. Through seamless data integration and real-time collaboration, it deciphered complex terrains, visualized structural intricacies, and simulated seismic scenarios. This digital wizardry transformed a challenge into a triumph, unraveling Earth's mysteries and reshaping geological exploration for modern pioneers.

Throughout my career, I have gained extensive experience in utilizing GIS algorithms for spatial analysis. One of the key applications I worked on at TARU was the HRVA project. In these projects, we employed various GIS algorithms to assess and analyze the potential hazards, risks, and vulnerabilities in the region. Furthermore, I was involved in optimizing routes for different areas, specifically for accessing healthcare services and emergency assembly points. By leveraging GIS tools and algorithms, we were able to determine the most efficient and effective routes to reach these critical locations. This optimization process involved considering factors such as distance, travel time, accessibility, enhancing overall emergency response etc.

In my 10 years experience with GIS I found that many tools are under utilised, particularly Spatial Analysis and modelling. The modelling tools enable you to create models especially on processes that are more routine giving you enough time to focus on analysis of your results. Once the model is set up ,it’s just a matter of clicking the button and let it run. Spatial Analysis tool really helps you create good results from any data be it sampling your raster into shapefiles or tables for further analysis .

In the realm of oil geology, spatial analysis proved a potent compass. In a reservoir characterization project, we harnessed GIS to unravel subsurface mysteries. Combining seismic data, well logs, and production records, we mapped reservoir properties and simulated fluid flow. The model's output pinpointed high-productivity zones, optimizing drilling. This venture showcased GIS's prowess in deciphering subterranean puzzles, streamlining exploration, and maximizing resource extraction. Through spatial analysis, we tapped into the Earth's secrets and charted a course towards efficient oil reservoir management.

Spatial analysis and modeling refers to the use of geographic information systems (GIS) and statistical techniques to analyze, interpret, and model spatial data. It involves examining patterns, relationships, and trends within spatially-referenced data to gain insights and make informed decisions. Spatial analysis and modeling have diverse applications across various fields, including urban planning, environmental management, transportation, epidemiology, natural resource management, and market research. By leveraging the power of GIS and statistical techniques, spatial analysis and modeling provide valuable insights for decision-making processes.

GIS Modeling has helped me as an Urban Planner to analyze the real impact of government policies and spending on projects using ModelBuilder and Python. There is nothing more rewarding than being able to correlate the economic impact analysis variables until you can see the true impact of these programs in urban places. And I am surprised sometimes to see its true influence.

As I started my career in GIS through Digitisation of maps and Georefrencing topographical sheets through Google Earth Engine as I needed that for making Land Use Land Cover maps for my EIA reports. It was exhilarating that I can differentiate areas in my maps between dense forest to shrubs to barren land and urban areas and many other features. By using tools like QGIS, Erdass Imagine and Auto-cad I was able to compose the maps needed.

After almost 15 years of career in forestry and geoinformatics I can easily say that Remote Sense is one of the most powerful and keeping on growing tool. The number of available sensor systems basically increases every year. What used to be around raster processing and vector extraction tools, now became big data, that has to be processed on the cloud. And it keeps growing! SAR, multispectral, LiDAR, drones, photogrammetry… it’s a beautiful world out there!

In the realm of oil geology, remote sensing unveiled unseen treasures. Amid an oil spill crisis, we turned to GIS to assess the disaster's impact. By analyzing satellite images, we tracked the spread of oil, quantified affected areas, and assessed environmental damage. This data-driven approach guided our cleanup efforts and informed stakeholders. The episode illuminated GIS's power in crisis management, demonstrating how remote sensing could swiftly provide crucial insights for effective decision-making and ecological preservation. Through remote sensing, we transformed adversity into a lesson on harnessing technology for environmental stewardship.

Remote Sensing and Image Processing are closely related fields that deal with the acquisition, analysis, and interpretation of data obtained from satellites, aircraft, or other platforms. Here are some key aspects of remote sensing and image processing:Remote Sensing: Remote sensing involves the collection of information about an object or phenomenon without direct physical contact. It typically refers to the observation and measurement of Earth's surface and atmosphere using sensors mounted on satellites, aircraft, or drones. Image Processing: Image processing involves the manipulation and analysis of digital images to extract information, enhance visual quality, or interpret underlying patterns

Over my 12-year career, I've harnessed remote sensing and image processing to unravel intricate patterns. A standout project in this domain involved assessing the Urban Heat Island (UHI) phenomenon. The rapid and unplanned replacement of natural surfaces with built ones fueled UHI in Indore and Surat cities of India. Employing remote sensing and image processing, we meticulously calculated UHI effects and recommended solutions. Our findings underscored the significance of promoting Cool Roofs and Passive Ventilation Concepts to enhance thermal comfort in these cities. This project exemplifies how remote sensing and image processing can decode complex urban dynamics, allowing for informed interventions and sustainable urban planning.

Throughout my 12-year career, I've crafted diverse maps thematic, choropleth, and more. The COVID-19 pandemic illuminated the potency of digital maps, showcasing their immense societal value during crises. Notably, I spearheaded the following initiatives: Created a map displaying available private hospital beds for COVID treatment in Ahmedabad, Developed a map visualizing Ahmedabad's COVID-19 positive patient location and Designed a dashboard for Geovisualization, and analysis of COVID-19 cases in Ahmedabad's. The pandemic magnified digital maps' role in disseminating critical information swiftly and effectively. My involvement in these initiatives underscored their significance in crisis management and community support.

Amidst oil exploration, geovisualization became our compass. Assigned to convey complex seismic data's insights to stakeholders, we harnessed GIS creatively. Crafting an interactive map, we visualized reservoir structures, drilling sites, and production zones. Vibrant colors and symbols painted a vivid picture, making abstract data tangible. Adding pop-up information, we transformed our map into an interactive story, engaging and enlightening decision-makers. This experience highlighted the art of geovisualization, showing how a well-crafted map can bridge technical jargon and communicate crucial insights, turning data into actionable narratives.

Geovisualization and cartography are both important fields that involve the representation and visualization of spatial data. Although they are related, there are some key differences between the two:Geovisualization: Geovisualization focuses on the visual representation and exploration of spatial data using interactive maps, graphs, and other visual techniques. It aims to effectively communicate spatial patterns, relationships, and trends within the data. Cartography: Cartography focuses on the science and art of mapmaking, involving the design and production of maps to represent geographic information in a visually appealing and informative manner.

Geovisualisation and cartography are crucial in communicating geographical information. You can perform your GIS analyses, simulations etc. perfectly, but if you visualise the results poorly, you run the risk of not convincing, or maybe even misleading, your audience. Good visualisations (including good maps) are not only well designed according to visualisation "grammar", they're also attractive, in order to attract the target audience.

Logistics companies can get benefit to track locations for delivery vehicles and packages in real-time and cheap-labour alternate location. Many advantages from the location analytic and it's used by companies to improve their productivity in terms of business, improve their marketing decisions, also take the decisions about the place where the businesses should be located. Location Intelligence and Business Analytics are the powerful tools.

As a Geospatial Expert with 12 years of experience, I've leveraged location intelligence and business analytics to glean invaluable insights from spatial data. Two pivotal projects exemplify this: 1. Surat EWS: In this endeavor, we strategically deployed IoT sensors citywide. By harnessing near-real-time modelling outcomes, we effectively communicated vital information to communities at risk. 2. Kolkata FFWS: Here, we implemented a unique strategy utilizing low-quality, high-density IoT sensors across the city. This innovative approach facilitated flood management and mitigation. By harnessing the power of location intelligence, we drove informed decision-making and safeguarded vulnerable areas.

I would have included a section on Deep Learning, a subset of machine learning, which holds great potential for GIS applications. Deep learning algorithms can allow the extraction of valuable insights from large volumes of satellite imagery and sensor data. By leveraging neural networks, deep learning algorithms can automatically extract features from geospatial data, such as satellite imagery and LiDAR, to support tasks like object detection, land cover classification, and change detection. Tools and frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, and Keras provide the infrastructure for implementing deep learning models for GIS using programming. The integration of Deep Learning with spatial data is something that I am exploring right now.

I would add integration to other very crucial in our life applications such as Earth resources management, Maintenance management, Environmental systems, and ...etc

Some of the most advanced and specialized (GIS) tools and applications : - Trimble GPS Pathfinder Office: A software package for GIS data collection and data maintenance with integrated GNSS post-processing to improve the quality of field-collected GPS data. - IDRISI TerrSet: An integrated geospatial software system for monitoring and modeling the earth system for sustainable development. It is a particularly robust system for environmental management and terrain analysis. - SkylineGlobe: A suite of 3D earth visualization and analysis software used for creating and maintaining comprehensive, interactive, three-dimensional geospatial environments.

Some of the most advanced and specialized GIS tools and applications include ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, Google Earth Pro, and ENVI. These tools offer a wide range of features for data analysis, mapping, and geospatial visualization.

Tools of current interest to me are those that can handle serious volumes of data and computational analysis. So tools like Sedona, Databricks' Mosaic (think it's going to get a new name soon) and GeoTrellis. These distributed tools offer us a new way to process and ingest data, as well as some analytical capabilities.