Just a few years ago, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were largely regarded as tools for making eye-catching maps, and perhaps layers of maps with varying attributes. Rapid advances in technology have greatly expanded the utility of GIS and the scope of application of these spatial data management tools.

Using current software, DPRA can now create mapping capabilities that are fully integrated into computer applications for any business sector that deals with spatial data, including applications accessible via the Internet.

Moreover, through creative layering and geo-referencing of all forms of digital data—text, graphics, spreadsheets, architectural and engineering plans/drawings, aerial photographs, video, environmental data, and, of course, any map features—DPRA can create powerful analytical, management and communication tools.

Successful DPRA deployments of GIS tools for clients include:

Naval District of Washington

DPRA's GIS solution for the Naval District of Washington provided web-enabled and integrated spatial tools supporting the environmental cleanup programs at the site.

Environmental Protection Agency Region V

DPRA provided EPA Region V with a web-enabled, interactive GIS tool supporting EPA public outreach. The GIS tool allowed public access to information on the location and condition of hazardous waste disposal sites in states comprising EPA Region V.

Environmental Protection Agency Superfund Outreach

DPRA's interactive mapping tools complimented EPA Superfund outreach, supporting national dissemination of information regarding Superfund waste site characteristics over the Internet.

DPRA's Geographic Information Systems Capabilities

The elegance of modern GIS tools is their capability to instantly relate varied information to concrete business circumstances. When combined with powerful tools for analysis and visualization, these capabilities help businesses assess the feasibility of proposed strategies for the future.

By integrating these analysis and visualization tools and incorporating GIS into business decision-making processes, DPRA enhances clients' understanding of what is really happening in their business and their vision of what can be achieved.

DPRA's GIS expertise offers clients a complete range of services, including:

• Data input, capture, and manipulation 

• Geo-coding of data 

• Data evaluation and auditing 

• Data conversion and standardization

• Spatial data integration to existing database structures 

• Customized map production 

• Development of database architecture and structure 

• Complete application development with GIS and mapping functionality 

• Complete spatial analytical services 

• Web-enabled mapping and database access 

• Full-color, large format hard copy output 

• Generation of a variety of digital media formats.

DPRA operates the ESRI GIS products, including ARC/INFO, Arc/View, MapObjects, and MO Internet Mapper, along with MapInfo and Intergraph MicroStation.

DPRA approaches every project by first studying the client's objectives and IT environment. The availability of different platforms and software packages enables DPRA to develop customized solutions that best fit each client's needs.

DPRA's GIS services are fully integrated with our other consulting and IT services, especially our Internet services, so we can offer clients seamless, integrated solutions on a one-stop basis. DPRA uses GIS to supplement our other data analysis tools, so clients can conceive project outcomes more fully and vividly.

DPRA has provided GIS solutions in a wide variety of business applications, including satellite imagery integration, web-mapping development, integration of spatial and mapping functions into database applications, data conversion, data review, and quality control review projects.

Our clients include the U.S. EPA, DOE, DoD, Environment Canada, Ontario's Ministries of the Environment and Natural Resources, and private industry.