GIS/Geospatial Market Study
According to a study by Daratech, Inc., worldwide GIS/geospatial business grew by 17 percent in 2005. In 2006, revenue estimates were $3.6 billion, up from $2.82 billion in 2004. Revenues are growing fastest in the public sector, which includes federal and municipal governments. Software revenues accounted for more than half of total GIS/geospatial revenues in 2004, with revenues from GIS software vendors reaching $1.5 billion.
Visualization
One reason for the accelerated growth of GISs in the corporate environment is the growing reliance of computer graphics as a means of presenting data. Much like spreadsheet programs revolutionized tabular reporting in the '80s, these systems are being used in conjunction with tabular data, spreadsheets and databases to deliver analysis in a more robust and effective manner.
More Effective User Interfaces
A graphical user interface (or GUI, pronounced 'gooey') can be used to access files and information related to mapped objects. The user can call up an interactive map displaying the desired information. Then by selecting an icon displayed on the map the user can view the digital file related to that object, such as an Excel spreadsheet containing sales figures or a PDF describing demographic information.
Enables Better Decisions
Today many businesses use geospatial data to analyze the amount of products shipped annually, along with shipment locations, demographics and other proprietary marketing research data. From the available data, analysts are able to more accurately project information such as sales volumes and market potential. This type of data can help to answer questions in less time with greater accuracy.
Enterprise Solutions
Integration is a key factor. With contemporary systems, marketing applications can be tied to facilities management. Distribution analysis for tracking and transportation can be used with forecast modeling. With resources in disparate locations, integrated, enterprise-level systems aren't a luxury; they are crucial for success.
Time is Money
The reduction of analysis time has been a primary goal for GISs. Faster computers, and better software enables analysts to use a multiple data layers in one analysis. These tools allow business to do more with more data, and reduce analytical time. What would, in the past, take weeks to analyze can now be pulled together in minutes.
About Daratech
Daratech, Inc. is a leading provider of information technology market research and technology assessment, advisory and strategic consulting services,
and executive-level conferences for manufacturing, engineering, construction and plant operations.
Established in 1979, Daratech specializes in PLM, CAD/CAM, digital product simulation (CAE), PDM/EDM, AECO PLM (architecture, engineering, construction, operations, plant lifecycle management), document/enterprise content management, GIS, and related areas.
For more on Daratech, visit www.daratech.com. For more on the Daratech GIS/Geospatial market study, visit www.daratech.com/research/gis/2006.