BUSINESS PROPOSAL ON A MOBILE APP

Business Proposal on a Mobile App

Business Proposal on a Mobile App

Introduction

Business use of geographical information systems (GIS) is growing as spatial costs are reduced and more spatial information becomes available. GIS can be used by business customers, suppliers, internal analysts, decision makers, managers, and executives. A number of models are available to explore, analyze, predict, and strategize with spatial information. Examples are geological modelling of the Earth's fossil deposits for the petroleum industry, identification of “hot sales zones” for the real estate industry, sitting models of outlets in fast foods, and decision support in insurance for pricing of policies. This entry covers the business topics of spatial decisions support, enterprise applications of GIS, Web and mobile spatial applications, spatial data, and business GIS strategies.

Product Description

Mobile GIS (geographic information systems) is an integrated software framework to allow users access to geospatial data and GIServices through mobile devices (e.g., iPhones, pocket PCs [personal computers], Smart phones, notebook computers, and personal digital assistants [PDAs]) via wired or wireless networks.

The Prospect of Mobile GIS Application and Mobile Phones

Developed from wireless technology first employed by the military and emergency responders, modern cellular networks were first available in the United States in 1983. As with the landline telephone, the cellular phone was initially marketed for business purposes. The devices gained popularity with the general public in the mid-1990s as the cost of calling plans decreased, the coverage areas increased, and the technology became more advanced. Published studies show that the most commonly reported reason people subscribe to cellular phone service is for the capability to communicate during emergency situations. However, cellular phones now are most frequently used for social interactions.

Not only did the cellular phone cut the cord off the telephone, but it eliminated the boundaries of time and space that had been created for landline telephone use. Many people report a feeling of reliance on their cellular phones and keep them within arm's length at all times. In addition to telephone capabilities, the devices are used to store contact information for family, friends, and business associates, to schedule appointments and keep track of important dates, and as a replacement for watches and alarm clocks. For many, cellular phones have become the primary means by which they communicate. As the cellular phone is integrated into daily life, it is supplementing the role of the landline telephone in developing and maintaining relationships, as well as symbolizing and strengthening bonds among family members and friends. In any place and time, one may connect with a loved one to make plans, send or receive important information, obtain emotional support, or simply connect.

New cellular technologies such as text messaging (a short-messaging service typically relaying messages containing no more than 160 characters) and multimedia messaging (sending short messages containing photos or videos, a service available after digital cameras became standard features on cellular phones) have gained widespread popularity and increased the frequency of contact between family members and friends throughout the day, as well as ...