USE

What is GIS?

GIS is a technology that links geographic location to table records.

What industries use GIS and/or GPS?

Although it is not widely known, a large array of disciplines and industries use GIS and/or GPS.  GIS and GPS are used by emergency responders, police and fire departments, land management agencies such as the National Park Service or Bureau of land management, marketing agencies -- for example demographic analysis, logistics -- monitoring freight deliveries, and physical geography -- analysis of plate tectonics.  This just names a few uses of GIS.

What software do I need to use GIS data?

Several options exist depending upon your needs and budget.  GIS data can be provided in KML/kmz format allowing it to be read in Google Earth which is a freeware viewer that is limited in functionality.  The data can also be provided in geo-database or shapefile format which requires industry-standard software such as ESRI's ArcGIS suite.  In addition data can be provided in CAD format necessitating that software.

How can I use GIS or GPS in my business or industry?

Cities

Anytime you need to analyze objects that take up space you can use GIS.  For example, you may decide to identify all oil or gas wells under some minimum production.  Allowing you to visualize them on a map may allow you to schedule maintenance more easily.

THEORY

How does GIS work?

GIS links geographic data (where something is) to table data (attributes for that geographic region).  For example the number of people in your county.  Doing this allows you to select information from tabular records, e.g. -- all oil wells powered by three phase motors and none else, or from geography, e.g. what anchors are located within 100 feet of the well bore.

How does GPS work?

Tough question!  Suffice it to say that a constellation of satellites transmits data that the GPS receiver analyzes to obtain its position; which is why GPS doesn't work under the ground or in buildings.  These radio waves transmitted through space are subject to atmospheric and terrestrial distortion.  Very complex techniques and hardware are utilized so that an accurate position can be obtained.  This explains the difference inaccuracy between a $150 recreation grade GPS accurate to within about 5 m to a $30,000 sub centimeter unit used in above ground land surveying.  Note that recreation grade units can be up to 30 m off depending upon your unit and terrain.

How accurate is CNCC GIS and Environmental Consultants LLC (CNCC_LLC) data?

Depending upon the service requested accuracy can be in the sub meter or sub-centimeter range.  Vertical position, i.e. -- depth, of buried lines is to be supplied by client drawings unless otherwise arranged.  Pipeline assumed to lie within 2 m either side of markers.  Assume buried pipe and exposed pipe have same dimensions.  Exposed lines guaranteed accurate to within 1 m.  No horizontal or vertical accuracy expressed or implied on buried lines.

SERVICES

What services does CNCC_LLC provide?

We specialize in positional and attribute data and analyses for energy and environmental industries.  Some of the services we provide are:

• well location characterization -- well bore, tanks, instrumentation, etc.
• pipeline documentation
• threatened and endangered species analysis
• landscape analysis
• hydrologic analysis
• training -- distance delivery or at your site

This list is not exhaustive so don't hesitate to contact us!

TRAINING

What training does CNCC_LLC offer?

We offer introductory through advanced training on GIS software and GPS hardware.  Visit the training page for a brief synopsis of courses already in place and a link to the course syllabus.  We can customize training to meet your needs.

What equipment is CNCC_LLC familiar with?

We have expertise with the following equipment and software:
Desktop Software:
ESRI | ArcGIS suite, Arc IMS server, Arc GIS server, Arc Pad
Trimble | Pathfinder Office, Terrasync, GPS correct
Windows | various workstation and server operating systems
Garmin | XL, 12XL, eTrex
Trimble | Geo-Explore 2&3, GeoXT series, Juno series
Topcon| Hiperlite+, FC series field controller

What is distance delivery and how does it work?

Distance delivery is some combination of audio/video data streaming that transmits and receives images and sound over great distances. This technology facilitates business meetings, course instruction, and IT assistance between spatially -- separated locations. The video feed is supplied via high speed Internet connection and is often combined with the audio feed. In some situations, the audio portion is better supplied over telephone connection. Please review distance delivery specifications before committing to this medium.

What equipment, software, or services do I need to use this technology?

Basically, a stable, high speed Internet connection having capacity of 1.5+ Mbps download and .5 Mbps upload, a current browser (CNCC_LLC prefers Chrome), speakers and microphone, and an LCD projector for group sessions. A complete listing of requirments is available at the AnyMeeting website.

How does a distance-delivered meeting differ from a face-to-face meeting?

Although we expect electrical signals to move at the speed of light and be instantaneous, this is not really the case. In fact people are accustomed to various signals like body language and pauses that naturally occur in most of our everyday communications. Because signals take time to be transmitted, which is called latency, the long pauses are often misconstrued to mean "you didn't hear me" or "you have no reply?" Thus, a second statement is immediately issued which conflicts with the reply, ie- that incoming electrical signal, yielding garbled conversation. To use this technology it is important to remember:

Speak your entire thought slowly, then pause patiently so that the reply has time to arrive.

Don't speak unnecessarily!

If you are in a lecture, use the 'Raise Hand' button or some other method to notify the speaker that you'd like to comment or break - in.

See any of the course syllabi for more extensive suggestions.