Cutting-edge spatial technology fuels global 'geo-awakening'

An unfolding 'geo-awakening' is set to see spatial technology become a critical tool for identifying and addressing key societal challenges such as transportation, the environment and the economy, according to the head of the Asia Pacific’s largest geospatial services group.

Brett Bundock, Managing Director of the Boustead Geospatial Group of companies, which includes Esri Australia, has today – on international GIS Day – shared his vision of geospatially-driven smart communities and cities that will change the way we live. “Globally, there is an evolving understanding that everything is connected by place and location,” Mr Bundock said. “Geospatial capabilities are no longer contained within GIS departments – they are being switched-on across organisations, enlightening a broader user group about the value of a geographic perspective. “This geo-awakening is something we refer to colloquially as ‘lighting up the building with geography’. “Similarly, there is an expanding appreciation of GIS technology as an evidence-based tool that removes the need for speculative decision-making. “As a consequence, we are seeing a real hunger for information products created with GIS technology – those that can help us analyse the past, understand the present and model the future. “And with it becoming easier for us to share our work across organisations, more and more non-traditional GIS consumers are demanding access to geographic insights.”

Mr Bundock said GIS technology would profoundly change the way our society functions as a result. “From managing mergers and acquisitions to electricity networks that efficiently direct energy where it is needed most – GIS technology is already playing a critical role in solving some of the world’s biggest challenges,” Mr Bundock said. “Ports will become hotbeds of productivity, with the technology directing movement with perfect precision and eliminating bottlenecks. It will help us reduce congestion, pollution and fossil fuel consumption.” Mr Bundock urged his industry peers to become more active in the mentoring of the next generation of GIS professionals. “For economic hubs such as South Asia, there is a sense of urgency in ensuring the region is well equipped to meet the growing and inevitable demands for GIS professionals,” Mr Bundock said. “Building spatial awareness amongst the younger generations is key to ensuring the industry and region remains globally competitive for years to come.

International GIS Day – held on 18 November – is a global initiative coined by Esri Founder and President Jack Dangermond as an annual salute to users of the transformative technology.