Geospatial Application Development and Integration

NLT migrated a shapefile-based information system to a centralized geospatial repository using ESRI’s ArcSDE platform and Microsoft’s SQL Server technology. NLT also migrated ezStorage’s existing ArcView 3.x Avenue-based customizations and tools to the ArcObjects .NET environment. NLT’s GIS analysts then created cartographic base maps and templates, including custom icons. ezStorage uses the maps for presentations to potential investors and for internal decision-making processes. NLT’s software developers customized ArcGIS Desktop to include the Business Analyst Extension, thus providing ezStorage with advanced analysis tools while simplifying the business process for casual users. To offer additional analysis and visualization capabilities, NLT integrated several third-party tools, including GPS Photo Link, Google Maps, Google Earth, Microsoft Virtual Earth, and Maryland Property View. NLT also developed custom report forms with succinct content and aesthetically pleasing formatting. Finally, NLT trained ezStorage staff in the new functionality—from data loading to analysis to map production—so future work could be done in house. As part of the training effort, NLT created clear, concise user guides.