Chapter 7 of Getting to Know Web GIS focuses on ArcGIS Survey123, a form-centric tool that connects real-world data collection with GIS mapping. It explains how surveys can be built to collect structured, location-based information from users in the field or online, making it easy to turn observations into interactive geographic data. The chapter highlights features like logic-based questions, image attachments, and GPS-enabled responses that can feed directly into web maps and dashboards. It also covers how Survey 123 integrates with ArcGIS Online and Enterprise, letting users analyze field-collected data in real time, visualize patterns, and share updates instantly. What stood out most is how this approach bridges the gap between data collection and visualization, empowering anyone-not just GIS professionals to contribute to a living, evolving map.
Application idea: Using my own data, I could create a Survey123 project that tracks park and trail conditions in my area. Each form entry could record details like litter levels, wildlife sightings, and trail accessibility, automatically mapping responses by GPS location. Over time, this would create a dynamic map showing trends in environmental quality and maintenance needs. This connects back to earlier chapters by combining cloud-based publishing, real-time mapping, and app development into one integrated workflow.