Powering Reliable Geospatial Solutions in Challenging Environments
They’re crucial for the work we do!
The Client
Our client, a leading geospatial services provider based in Germany, serves both private and public sectors worldwide. Their projects span diverse industries, each demanding cutting-edge technology and precision.
The Challenge
In 2018, faced with mounting pressure to respond quickly and effectively to multiple projects, our client found themselves in a bind: a shortage of skilled professionals to support their ambitious goals. They needed a partner who could scale with their needs.
We have been collaborating ever since, working together on a range of development projects. On this particular one, we have focused on the development of a powerful, mobile-first Geographic Information System (GIS) app, designed to work seamlessly both online and offline, regardless of the environment, whether outdoors or on location.
Navigating Complex Geodata, Seamlessly
The app we developed together transforms the way users interact with geospatial data in real-time. It integrates complex geodata with ease, allowing users to:
- Integrate their own geodata and effortlessly switch between 2D and 3D models to take advantage of navigation tools and improve situational awareness.
- Verify object information onsite or freely capture in-situ data using vectors, text, photos, videos, and even audio.
- Navigate even the most sensitive data securely.
- Support vast amounts of data and data exchange in open standard formats, ensuring compatibility with most GIS solutions in the market.
One of the main challenges is its hybrid architecture, which integrates a wide range of technologies and external libraries, including sophisticated tools for handling GIS data, 2D, and 3D models. Managing the complexity of these systems, especially ensuring they function seamlessly together, is a major hurdle.
Additionally, allowing users to interact with all the features while offline adds another layer of complexity, requiring robust data synchronization and offline storage mechanisms to ensure a smooth user experience.
Collaboration Meets Innovation
We approached this challenge with a mixed team of experts, split between our client’s headquarters in Germany and our development hub in Portugal. With a clear goal in mind, our team of engineers tackled the project’s complexity through methodical research, strategic planning, and agile execution. On your end, an Account Manager also supports the client and our team, monitoring outputs and satisfaction levels without getting involved in day-to-day tasks.
To deliver this project successfully, a deep level of analysis and research was critical at every stage. The hybrid nature of the architecture, combined with the complexity of integrating GIS, 2D, and 3D data models, required thorough planning to ensure seamless operation across different technologies.
Additionally, leveraging our team's experience in handling similar multifaceted systems played a key role in overcoming the challenges. Our focus on extensive testing, particularly in offline environments, ensured that users could access all features reliably, regardless of connectivity.
Delivering Empowering Results
Over the years, our collaboration has not only empowered our client to scale their projects but also enabled them to take on new ones. The GIS app, developed by our joint team, is now a reliable offering on the client’s portfolio, enabling greater flexibility and responsiveness in data capture, analysis, and decision-making.
It is also a testament to the power of combining meticulous research, technical expertise, and collaborative teamwork. Together, we have transformed the way geodata is captured, analyzed, and utilized, no matter the environment.
We have the same way of thinking about our work and what should be accomplished, which means the teamwork is excellent.
Technologies
Frontend - Angular, Ionic with its own plugins and some custom for both Android / iOS OS
Backend - Node.js, nest.js
Databases - MySQL, NoSQL
Geospatial - Georeferencing, OpenLayers, Turf.js, JSTS
Other - RESTful APIs, offline mechanisms, authentication & authorization mechanisms.