Web & mobile GIS applications#

You can use GIS through multiple applications, from desktop software, to online platforms, to mobile apps. At a basic level, you can perform limited geospatial tasks with apps such as Google Earth or Google Maps. As a GIS professional, you will mostly use a desktop software, which could be either proprietary (requiring a license, e.g ESRI’s ArcGIS) or open-source (available to use for free, e.g. QGIS). However, web applications can be relevant for obtaining data or to share data and maps with others.

Web apps overview#

Here are some online GIS platforms and tools you should be aware of; we’ll use some of them later in the training.

  • OpenStreetMap (OSM): An open geographic database updated and maintained by a community of volunteers via open collaboration. It works using a tag system (each feature is categorized through tags).

  • uMap: An online GIS application based on OpenStreetMap. You can upload standard geodata formats and do nice visualisation. Umap is very good for sharing maps and presenting basic interactive maps.

  • Felt: Felt is similar to uMap but even pretteier. An easy tool to create maps. You can draw, create feature and upload shapefiles. Plus, you can connect it to you QGIS with an plugin. In this way, you can use Felt for collaborative work.

  • Wikimapia: Online editable map service. Updated and maintained by contributors all over the world. It uses local knowledge, making it particularly useful in remote areas.

  • Google Maps: Limited, but it allows to upload layers, create and export features, share simple maps.

Mobile apps overview#

Mobile GIS apps are important for navigation and mobile data collection. Some of the most important free and open-source apps are listed below.

  • Qfield: Through QFieldCloud, you can open your QGIS projects on Qfield on your mobile device. Any edit made on the map in the app can then be synced and displayed in QGIS.

  • OsmAnd: Using OSM basemap, it’s a good app for offline navigation. You can upload .kml files to display on the map, as well as recording your trips and then exporting them.

  • GeoODK: Combines OpenDataKit (ODK) with a geo app. You can collect data through ODK surveys and display them on a map, in addition to easily create polygons and add information to them.

  • KoboToolbox: KoboToolbox is an open-source suite designed for efficient data collection and analysis, especially in challenging environments. It supports online and offline data collection via mobile devices and web forms, and offers an intuitive form builder for creating complex surveys. It includes features like real-time data viewing, data export.