Enterprise Information Dissemination

Data is a valuable asset, but in practice its worth depends on the ease and intelligence with which it can be used. Spatially enabled data warehousing and other relatively new techniques for enterprise information dissemination are making it possible for users across the enterprise to more effectively locate and use data that resides in diverse data sets and in different formats.

Some of the key elements that typically characterize successful enterprise data distribution efforts include

• An "open system" approach—independent of specific platforms, operating systems, or applications at the user end
• Expansive access to both spatial and non-spatial data sets—integrating data elements of different types, from different sources and locations
• Multiple users' ability to access data simultaneously
• Accessibility through various media, e.g., LAN, Internet, intranet, wireless
• Scalability.

The solution to enterprise information dissemination can take both physical and virtual forms. In the first instance, traditional data warehousing and data repository architectures, products, and procedures dominate. Spatial data recognition and handling augment traditional data storage and attribute handling.

In the second instance, virtual forms of data warehousing and repositories address not only the spatial elements of the data but the value and complication of heterogeneous environments and decentralized databases. Offsetting these complications are the procedural benefits of data being maintained and hosted and hosted by the traditional data custodian.

No matter how promising, if not enticing, the results may be, there is no proverbial free lunch. While current techniques liberate many users, the data custodians (who are typically users, too) do need to follow established standards, maintain metadata, and coordinate effectively for success.

That is where PlanGraphics can add particular value. Our approach to spatially enabled enterprise dissemination addresses the institutional and procedural issues and needs as well as the architectural and technical issues and capabilities.