August 05, 2013 -- The latest release of the world’s leading Geographic Information System (GIS) is set to revolutionise how organisations use the technology, according to one of the nation’s leading GIS experts.

ArcGIS 10.2 – from GIS technology developer Esri – includes ground-breaking real-time data capabilities, expanded business intelligence support and a host of new online analysis tools.

Esri Australia Solutions Architect Josh Venman said ArcGIS 10.2 – the first major release from Esri in more than two years – challenges what users have come to expect from GIS technology.

“Real-time GIS is one of the newest frontiers for spatial technology, with new advancements at ArcGIS 10.2 meaning the once futuristic capability is now in the hands of users,” said Mr Venman.

“The platform now features the GeoEvent Processor and Operations Dashboard apps which enable users to view and update data in real-time.

“Users now have the tools they need – in the palm of their hand – to access live data streams, analyse data on the fly, and then utilise the information in their other business systems.

“In this way, GIS technology has been transformed into a powerful frontline decision-making tool where you can accurately monitor work orders, staff and data from anywhere in the world – to get a crystal-clear view of your daily operations.”

Mr Venman said another major advancement at ArcGIS 10.2 is the onset of Web GIS – which makes the ArcGIS platform accessible to users across an entire organisation, from any device.

“Whether it’s a GIS professional, a Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst, or an executive travelling with a tablet device – Web GIS provides intuitive access to maps, apps, analysis and data in a form that makes sense to them,” he said.

“By using the ArcGIS platform as a content management system to organise, secure, and facilitate access to geographic information products, organisations can leverage readily available mapping templates to deliver targeted applications without the need to create custom code.

“This is more than just maps in the Cloud – it is a platform for delivering an enterprise GIS capability to an entire workforce, taking full advantage of existing investments in people, skills and technology.”

Mr Venman said the growing popularity of location analytics had also been addressed at 10.2; with the capability now more accessible to users across a broader range of software platforms.

“Users are now in a better position to generate powerful geographic analysis capabilities within their BI tools, such as MicroStrategy BI and Microsoft Dynamics CRM,” said Mr Venman.

“ArcGIS 10.2 also features streamlined new interfaces to make it even easier for BI users to instantly gain powerful new insights into their data through maps and location.

“These changes recognise the critical role location analytics holds in a host of business operations – whether it’s a retailer selecting a site for a new store; or a utility looking to better manage vegetation around their electrical assets.”

As the key software release for Esri this year, ArcGIS 10.2 will be a major focus of Esri Australia’s Ozri 2013 conference, being held in Brisbane from 4-6 September.

Esri’s key product strategists and developers from the Unites States will be attending Ozri to reveal first-hand some of the revolutionary new capabilities.

Ozri, the Asia Pacific region’s leading GIS conference, will feature a variety of workshops, presentations and seminars dedicated to the new software release.

To register, visit: esriaustralia.com.au/ozri