WebGIS Solutions at RCC GIS

What is WebGIS?

WebGIS refers to the use of web-based technologies to deliver GIS functionalities, enabling users to access, analyze, and visualize geospatial data through the internet. At RCC GIS, we develop cutting-edge WebGIS solutions that make geospatial information accessible and actionable for researchers, policymakers, and the public.

Our WebGIS Capabilities

Cloud-Based WebGIS

We leverage cloud computing to provide:

• Scalable and elastic infrastructure
• Serverless architectures for cost efficiency
• Real-time data processing and visualization
• Global content delivery for optimal performance

Interactive Web Mapping

Create engaging and intuitive web maps with:

• Custom basemaps and tile layers
• Vector tiles for efficient data rendering
• 3D visualization with Cesium and Mapbox GL JS
• Mobile-responsive designs for all devices

Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI)

We help build robust SDI solutions including:

• Geospatial data catalog services
• Standard-compliant web services (WMS, WFS, WCS, WMTS)
• Metadata management and discovery
• Data sharing and collaboration platforms

Integration Capabilities

Our WebGIS solutions integrate with:

• IoT devices for real-time monitoring
• Enterprise systems and databases
• Social media and crowdsourced data
• Machine learning models for spatial analysis

Featured Projects

Urban Planning Portal

An interactive WebGIS platform for urban planners and researchers to analyze:

• Land use and zoning
• Transportation networks
• Infrastructure planning
• Demographic and socio-economic data

Environmental Monitoring Dashboard

A real-time WebGIS application featuring:

• Air quality monitoring
• Water resource management
• Green space analysis
• Environmental impact assessments

Public Health Mapping Tool

A secure WebGIS platform for:

• Disease surveillance and mapping
• Healthcare facility accessibility
• Health disparity visualization
• Emergency response planning

Technologies We Use

Frontend Mapping Libraries

• OpenLayers: Open-source library for all your mapping needs
• Leaflet: Lightweight library for mobile-friendly interactive maps
• Mapbox GL JS: Advanced vector tile rendering and 3D mapping
• Cesium: High-precision 3D globes and maps

Backend Technologies

• GeoServer: Standards-based server for geospatial data
• PostGIS: Spatial database extender for PostgreSQL
• STAC: SpatioTemporal Asset Catalog for managing geospatial assets
• Docker: Containerization for easy deployment

Development Frameworks

• React/Next.js: For building responsive web applications
• Python/Flask/Django: For backend services and APIs
• Node.js: For scalable server-side applications
• GraphQL: For efficient data querying

Getting Started with WebGIS

Learning Resources

1. Web Mapping Fundamentals

   • Introduction to web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)
   • Basic mapping concepts and coordinate systems
   • Working with GeoJSON and vector tiles

2. Interactive Web Mapping with Leaflet

   • Creating your first web map
   • Adding interactive elements and popups
   • Working with different data formats

3. Advanced WebGIS Development

   • Building custom map components
   • Performance optimization techniques
   • Authentication and security best practices

Development Environment Setup

1. Install Node.js and npm
2. Set up a code editor (VS Code recommended)
3. Install Git for version control
4. Explore our WebGIS starter kit on GitHub

Consultation and Support

Our team offers comprehensive support for WebGIS projects:

• Project Planning: Requirements analysis and technical specifications
• Development Support: Code reviews and architecture guidance
• Training: Custom workshops for your team
• Deployment: Cloud hosting and infrastructure setup

Example Code Snippets

Basic Leaflet Map

// Initialize the map
const map = L.map('map').setView([41.7891, -87.5994], 12);

// Add OpenStreetMap base layer
L.tileLayer('https://{s}.tile.openstreetmap.org/{z}/{x}/{y}.png', {
    attribution: '© OpenStreetMap contributors'
}).addTo(map);

// Add a marker
L.marker([41.7891, -87.5994])
    .addTo(map)
    .bindPopup('University of Chicago')
    .openPopup();

Loading GeoJSON Data

// Load GeoJSON from URL
fetch('data/chicago_parks.geojson')
    .then(response => response.json())
    .then(data => {
        L.geoJSON(data, {
            style: {
                fillColor: '#4CAF50',
                weight: 2,
                opacity: 1,
                color: '#4CAF50',
                fillOpacity: 0.7
            }
        }).addTo(map);
    });

Contact Us

Ready to start your WebGIS project? Contact our team at gis@uchicago.edu to discuss how we can help bring your geospatial vision to life on the web.