"Geo for Good" is designed to introduce mapping professionals in the non-profit sector to a growing toolset offered by Google Outreach. Spatially representing data has empowering results when properly displayed to a large demographic. Currently being utilized in conservation efforts in Uganda and helping shed light on the genocide in Darfur Google's mapping tools are starting to show the power of geographic information systems.
For a couple weeks now, I have been involved in writing a draft proposal to Google on behalf of the CDF in order to identify the spatial needs and database requirements to upgrade our current system. The CDF wants to revitalize its information not just in a public serving platform but spatially enable it in order to visualize and reap the maximum benefits. I identified four major points that need to be addressed.
1. Database integration
2. Spatially enabling the data we already have
3. Auto-generated mapping solutions
4. Integrated Online Capacity
Combining the goals the CDF needs to focus on as well as Google's mapping resources is the first step in piecing together the complex solutions for many of the spatial needs of the CDF. Since I had a significant portion of this project already on my lap I pushed for the station to get two seats at the workshop in order to further utilize the collaboration of UWEC's Geography Department.
This morning I got news that I was able to attend the workshop with Daniel, the social sciences coordinator for the CDF. We'll be meeting up in Mountain View, California at the Google Headquarters on September 25th-29th. It's going to be a great opportunity to learn innovative mapping solutions to real world non-profit problems. At the same time it's a great way to stay in contact and collaboration with the CDF.
If all goes to plan I should be able to present the results as well as put together a mini-workshop for the Geography Department when I return.
