GIST 8109 - Exam 1

What is a geospatial system

A GIS, utilizes hardware, software, data, procedures, networks, and people that store, query, analyze and distribute any geographic info.

A manager of geospatial systems is not an entry level job. Both GIS and IT knowledge is ideal.

Geospatial systems management responsibilities

Manage and supervise GIS staff

Installation of software

Configuration of hardware + software

Security administration with GIS portal

Data analysis

Make recommendations related to performance and efficiency of that storage

Prelim DB design as needed

Data modeling and optimization

Administration of new and existing DBs

Types of information systems

Decision support

Enterprise systems

Expert systems

Data warehouses

Search engines

Issues with information systems

Scope - intranet, extranet, internet

On premise or cloud

Security and user roles

Systems development

Systems maintenance

Benefits of information systems

Greater efficiency and effectiveness

Reduced expenses

Real-time and/or archived info

Improved access to info

Stable with fail safe capabilities

Evolving information systems

Feedback should be incorporated to make sure systems are meeting their goals and objectives. Technology changes for the system itself and for any related systems.

Managing GIS hardware

Optimal hardware performance

Minimum downtime

Managing GIS software

GIS integrated with other applications/OS

Up to date

Security and user roles

Managing GIS data and DBs

Size

DB compression, backup, and recovery —> set schedule and procedures

QA/QC

Compatibility

Managing GIS “big picture”

Schedule planning and budget for hardware/software upgrades or changes

Incorporate new tech as it evolves

Training staff

Mid to long term planning

Management roles

GIS manager - manage GIS team and purchasing decisions (business knowledge)

GIS lead - manage projects, QA/QC

GIS systems administrator - manage hardware, software, and data, global QA/QC

GIS analyst - complete GIS projects, scripting

GIS technologist - complete GIS projects, task QA/Q

GIS application developer - develop apps that go beyond out of the box solutions

Characteristics of hardware

Expensive and has a limited life (around 5 years)

Must be powerful enough to use all software and business needs

Compatibility between different hardware types is important

Types of hardware

Handheld

Portable

Single-user non-portable

Multi-user systems (server, data centers)

Other devices (input/output only, microcontrollers)

Hardware of components

CPU

Data storage

Input

Output

Video card/GPU (optional)