JBA began developing a GIS application for use on Windows Mobile devices in 2002, choosing MapInfo MapX Mobile as the most reliable and functional software available. The 'GISmo' application was initially developed for Network Rail earthworks' engineers to take on site for their risk analysis, maintenance and assessment procedures and included a website in addition to the mobile GIS to make the data fully available to administrative staff for editing and reporting.

The GISmo system is an eMbedded C++ application that interfaces with MapInfo’s MapX Mobile software to provide the GIS functionality. The system utilises eXtensible Markup Language (XML) to define forms, data types and lists, as well as relationships between the database tables allowing a flexible and user configurable system. GISmo supports all the standard mapping formats and can accommodate point, line and polygon data. Drop-down lists are used extensively throughout the system to ensure data consistency and quality. The system includes data validation and scoring during the capture process to ensure the consistency of all data collected.

GISmo is increasingly being used on rugged integrated devices (currently, Trimble Nomads), but has historically been used with HP iPaq devices with a separate digital camera and Bluetooth global positioning system (GPS). We have also supplied GISmo for use on Tablet PCs, which provide a bigger screen size as well as integrated camera and GPS. The availability and quality of new mobile devices is constantly reviewed so that we can make appropriate recommendations to our clients.

The success of the GISmo mobile application has resulted in it being adopted nationally by Network Rail, introduced to the Northern Ireland Railways, used for post-flood survey and asset management by the Environment Agency, Internal Drainage Boards, Local Authorities and Councils and National Parks. The flexibility of form design using XML has meant that the application is readily adapted to different data collection scenarios. One of the recent adaptations enables GISmo devices to be used for Phase 1 Habitat Surveys undertaken by JBA's environmental team for Internal Drainage Boards.

GISmo application areas include:

• Asset Management 
• Field Survey and Data Capture 

For further details on Mobile GIS (GISMO) and how we may help you, please contact Andrew Gubbin (01756 799 919)