| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4464695 | International Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation | 2015 | 8 Pages |
•We examine the nature of freely available geospatial software and data in the context of disaster management.•The reviewed software applications range from GIS to remote sensing, crowd-source mapping and content management systems.•Free geoinformatics can help to optimize the limited financial and technological resources that many organisations face.•Trends and challenges are considered, guidelines are given.
This article examines the nature of freely available geospatial software and information systems in the context of disaster management. The use of geospatial data is crucial to effective disaster management, from preparedness to response and recovery. However, to make efficient use of available data and information – before, during and after a disaster – reliable software is required. The software applications examined in this paper range from Geographical Information Systems, to the processing of remotely sensed images, crowd-source mapping, web applications and content management systems. Trends and challenges are considered, and guidelines are given, to foster and encourage the provision of information by Freeware and Open Source Software. Free geoinformatics can help to optimize the limited financial, technological and manpower resources that many organisations face, providing a sustainable input to analytical activities.
Graphical abstractFreeware and Open Source GeoinformaticSoftware Map for 2014. The inset box highlightsDesktop software of particular use for disaster management.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (236 K)Download as PowerPoint slide
