The GeoForm Platform offers geospatial data management, transformations, analysis, and visualization. It can be used in self-service mode, operated by us on your behalf, or included as part of solutions in projects we deliver.
The functionality of the GeoForm Platform is organized into four distinct areas that align well with the data journey.
Data Management
The geospatial assets are represented in the Platform as vector and raster datasets. Vector data can be imported in the form of NDGeoJSON files, and raster data can be imported in the form of GeoTIFF files.
Datasets are available in a single combined table with paginated results, data-type filtering, and tree-like organization via a flexible labeling system. Every dataset is validated immediately after upload and is available for quick preview, further transformation, visualization, and sharing via widgets.
GeoForm Platform uses AWS S3 as its underlying service for data upload, storage, and sharing, ensuring data security, fast access, and competitive pricing. We are currently evaluating integration with AWS S3 Glacier, which should reduce storage costs to record-low levels.
Data Transformations
GeoForm provides robust data-transformation functionality that operates on datasets available in the Platform and generates new datasets immediately usable for further processing and visualization.
Vector transformations are handled with the Turf library, and raster transformations are handled with the GDAL framework. The Platform currently offers a basic set of transformations, but it can be easily extended to anything that Turf or GDAL have to offer.
Available Vector Transformations
- Filter by feature properties.
- Merge with another dataset.
- Generate single buffer zone.
- Generate multiple buffer zones.
- Group by covering polygon.
Available Raster Transformations
- Extract band.
- Reorder bands.
- Stack bands.
- Split multiband.
Data Analysis
The datasets managed within the platform are available for instant analysis, where they can be combined to deliver business value to platform users.
Recently, we extended the platform with its first analysis operation—Accessibility Analysis—in which a region’s boundaries, population, and points of interest form the basis for analyzing facility accessibility in that region. The analysis provides insights in the following ways:
- Service Area map. Area boundaries, facilities, and population in one view.
- Access to Service map and KPIs. Service accessibility levels across the selected region (2SFCA method).
- Expected Facilities Demand table. Demand attracted by each facility in the region (Huff-weighted model).
- Underserved Areas map and details table. Zones with below-average access.
- Service Reach By Time map and details table. Areas reachable within specific times from the reference facility (OSM Valhalla isochrones).
Data Visualization
All datasets on the Platform have preview functionality available immediately after import and validation. More advanced visualization is available via the Layer mechanism, where Vector- and Raster-specific styling can be applied by the user.
Layers are then easily aggregated into Maps—the key mechanism in the Platform for data visualization both within the Platform and externally on third-party websites via Widgets.
Mid-Term Roadmap
Our roadmap is driven by customer requests combined with the longer-term vision we have for the solution. We currently have the following topics in the pipeline:
- Improvements to Data Transformation and Analysis functionality to fully exploit the power of Turf and GDAL, coupled with a robust AWS S3–based data-management solution.
- Integration of standard datasets as a library available to all Platform users in real time. The initial focus is on WorldPop (raster) and OSM (vector), with the selection continuously expanded.
- Deeper integration with the AWS S3 ecosystem to enable easier data exchange with external systems and to reduce costs via optional use of AWS S3 Glacier.
Let’s talk—check the Contacts page to reach out for projects, comments, or questions!