Thursday, February 23, 2012

GIS & Inventory

Since GIS’s inception in the early 1980’s, communities have looked to digital maps to comprehend detailed data within and around their boundaries.  It allows users to visualize information from such data contained in spreadsheets to reveal their relationships in order to make effective and efficient decisions regarding scheduling and maintenance.  We were able to utilize a GIS program to create a base map for the entire Township which included right of way, municipal and parcel boundaries along with edge of pavement limits.  Additional information and characteristics were gathered regarding pavement, signs and drainage areas.  After our investigation and data retrieval for these particular objects, we were able to compile this information in a simple format and view them within Google Earth.  By using a free program such as Google Earth, we were able to reduce the learning curve of new software while using a reputable program.