In 2006 GeoNorth successfully upgraded a GIS mobile mapping solution used by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office and other jurisdictional First Responders. Originally developed by GeoNorth and in use since 1998, the application known as MapFinder has provided numerous police and other first responders with an in-vehicle mapping application that features robust geocoding against the County’s street centerline, property ownership identification, and document viewing.
Recent improvements include the real-time integration with the County’s CompuDyne Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system for instantly mapping current and historical calls for service as well as integration with in-vehicle Delorme Earthmate GPS systems. Officers can immediately determine their location relative to the call and keep both on screen while driving to the dispatch location. Large buttons are a user option for touch screens and short-cut keys are available making it extremely easy to perform tasks and navigate the application. Additionally, there are numerous quick-find drop-down fields that can be configured to rapidly query layers for specific locations, such as wireless hotspots, schools, parks, rural communities, etc.
GeoNorth recently completed enhancements to accommodate daytime and nighttime mode for the application to address user specific needs and events. We are currently addressing another set of requested enhancements to improve the interface, present critical information from dispatch, improve the GPS navigation, and add incident command functionality.
Although the project involved the integration of three distinct technologies, GeoNorth was able to rapidly complete the enhancement project in three weeks. According to Maurice Boardman of the Clackamas County Sheriffs Office… “Our deputies think the recent change to MapFinder that incorporates information from the CAD system to map a call is a “Perfect 10.” It is simple to use, and it works. That and the link to the GPS device have added tremendous value to the application. I was impressed with how quickly GeoNorth was able to develop this enhancement. The quick turnaround means more funding is available for additional improvements. We’re already gearing up for the next round.”
The application is highly successful and has grown in usage extending to a number of jurisdictions within the County.
