Issue link: https://resources.esri.ca/i/746844
Solution The City of Peterborough joined Esri Canada's Community Maps Program: an initiative that allows organizations to have their map data cached and published to Esri's secure cloud, ArcGIS Online, at no cost. Using the City's data in conjunction with basemaps generated through the Program, the City was able to create a Web service that allows residents to search and obtain information such as zoning, recently added streets, transit routes, garbage schedules, recreational facilities and essentially all other city services with a single click. To streamline internal operations, the City leveraged a Community Maps template to create a unique traffic sign app. By simply dragging and dropping a CSV file into the template, traffic signs are represented as points on the map. Using iPads, staff can now access the basemap through ArcGIS Online, click on a point and edit the condition rating for each sign. Updates are then automatically synched back to the corporate geodatabase. The Peterborough utility group also leveraged the Community Maps template to install smart meters across the City. X and Y co-ordinates from smart meters were exported into a CSV file and then imported into the template. This allowed the group to supply contractors with a URL to a Web map showcasing all of the meters in need of replacement. Benefits Using data from the Community Maps Program, the City of Peterborough was able to generate a basemap that lets users go well beyond city borders to view data far and wide. This is crucial for joint city-country services that require access to data beyond city limits, such as fire, social services, police and utilities. Storing data in the cloud also allowed the City to save a significant amount of server space. Leveraging ready-to-use templates allowed them to quickly and easily build a number of internal apps that have improved data quality and accuracy. Limited resources used to mean that the City simply couldn't bring mapping into the field. However, with the Community Maps template, the City was able to overcome these limitations and build high-functioning apps in a matter of weeks. A Basic Viewer application was also created and deployed on all Senior Administrative iPads in just three days. This allows city staff to remotely access GIS mapping data so that they can locate addresses and conduct measurements using the Community Maps toolbar. This has empowered officials to make decisions on-the-fly at City meetings, rather than placing a request with the GIS department and waiting three weeks. Decisions are now made much more quickly and they're based on current, accurate data. City of Peterborough develops powerful online apps to improve efficiency and transparency | Esri Canada 2 Residents of Peterborough can use the Web map to obtain a range of information about their city, including garbage pickup schedules. This has significantly reduced calls received by the City. " We now have access to one consistent basemap that can be leveraged throughout various departments, eliminating the need to remake maps over and over again. It's also much easier to share data with external stakeholders: we simply send a link for information to be accessed on ArcGIS Online." Nicole Schleifer Acting Land Information Services Manager City of Peterborough