Geography 292: Geospatial Analysis with Web GIS

Chapter 1
Chapter 1 introduced the fundamentals of Web GIS and emphasized how it’s becoming a powerful tool across different industries like government, business, research, and education. What really stood out was how flexible and far-reaching this technology is especially when it comes to hosting and sharing data. Whether the data is hosted in the cloud through ArcGIS Online or managed directly by users, Web GIS makes it possible to connect all the essential parts: data, layers, web maps, scenes, tools, and apps. Seeing how these elements come together to create interactive and shareable maps helped make sense of the whole system.

The tutorials were especially helpful in reinforcing the concepts. I learned how to create new items, add them to folders, attach images to popups, and publish maps for public viewing. The process felt pretty intuitive, especially after some experience with ArcGIS Desktop. Still, Web GIS offers a new level of accessibilitym it’s built for broader use and makes sharing data and visualizations much easier.

Chapter 2
Chapter 2 went deeper into layer types and introduced smart mapping, which is a feature that really simplifies the process of styling maps to highlight patterns in the data. It was useful to see how smart mapping uses defaults and data driven logic to help users make clean, meaningful visualizations without needing a background in cartography. The table outlining different mapping styles was a good reference and gave me a better idea of how to choose the right map type depending on the project.

I also learned about ArcGIS Arcade, a scripting tool that’s used to customize how data is displayed in popups even when certain attributes aren’t already available. It reminded me of using formulas in Excel, just adapted for GIS. Popups themselves were covered in more detail too, showing how they can be personalized to help map users understand what they’re looking at more quickly.

Another part of the chapter that stood out was Story Maps. These allow users to combine text, media, and interactive maps into one cohesive narrative, making them a great way to communicate information to people who might not be GIS experts. The tutorials walked through how to create story maps using different types of blocks like swipe comparisons and timelines, which added even more creativity and clarity to the presentation.

Applications Based on Chapters 1 & 2
The ideas from these chapters sparked several potential applications. For example, a dot density map could be used to show all the pet stores in the area that sell cat toys. A heat map could display the concentration of cat owners based on licensing data or survey responses. Another application could be a web map highlighting popular landmarks or attractions in Delaware County, which would be helpful for tourism or education purposes. I also thought about using a feature layer to show currently unused agricultural land in the county, which could help with land use planning or sustainability efforts. A more advanced idea would be to create a flood resilience planning app, using local data to show how future infrastructure projects might be impacted by flood risk. This could be really valuable for both residents and local officials as they make decisions about development.

Chapter 1

I was surprised by all of the different web hosts and other internet usages for GIS that were discussed in this chapter.  The section on technology also provided a lot of insights on what all of this data can actually be used for as well. The overview of contents was very useful (data, layers, web maps, scenes, tools, and apps). The section on different types of layers was also very helpful in understanding how they can be applied to projects in the future.

 

Chapter 2

At it again with more information on layers in this very helpful section. The table on smart-mapping styles was also useful, and the description will be helpful when determining what type of map to use for a project. The pop-up function seems very similar to the desktop version. I also recognized the story maps from desktop, I think this is very useful for when you are trying to convey information to an audience that might not be very familiar with your topic.

 

Applications

I looked to the table on page 41 to guide some of my ideas for different types of maps. An application for a dot density map would be locations of pet stores where I can buy my cat toys in the area. Another application would be a heat map, which could indicate the number of cat owners in the area.

Chapter 1: The first chapter highlights what GIS is all about, and what it is most commonly used for. Government agencies, business and research centers ahve all started using GIS for different applications. The tutorials were fairly easy to get through. I was able to access all of the data and complete the steps as necessary. The most interesting thing I found in chapter 1 was being able to add attachments to popups on a map. I understood most of the instructions because a lot of it was taught during GEOG 291 as well. Tutorial 1 had me create a new item and learn how to put it into a new folder, add photos and share my item publicly. 1-2 was about adding fields to my layer editing the data for the fields. 1-3 allowed mee to familiarize myself with both the content and settings toolbars and what each button does. I symbolized the  points and created popups. In the last tutorial I created an instant web app , as well as showing me the different views for the maps and how to publish the map to the public.

Chapter 2: The beginning of the chapter talks about different types of layers and what their most common uses are. It also goes over the basics of Pop ups and ArcGIS Arcade which is an expression language that allows you to display information where there is no attribute field. I also learned all about StoryMaps which I find to be the most interesting use for Web GIS as it can be used for so many different things and is so easy to understand. 2-1 was about geocoding to create a feature layer. The second tutorial was on symbolizing in different ways and how to use different effects. 2-3 was about creating and editing pop ups on a map by creating expressions. 2-4 allowed me to add new content to all of the popups . The fifth tuorial was on how to create a story from start to finish and the last one was on using swipe blocks and express maps.

For chapter 1 an application I could create is landmarks throughout Delaware County or its Key Attractions. For Chapter 2 I would choose to create a feature layer on current unused agricultural space in the county.

Chapters 1 and 2 provided a solid introduction to Web GIS and how it’s used to share and work with geographic data online. I learned how systems like ArcGIS Online make it easier for users to create interactive maps and apps. Chapter 1 explained how Web GIS has evolved and how it connects different components like data, servers, and users into one system. The tutorial showed how to create a basic web map app that displays points of interest, which helped me understand how Web GIS apps are structured.

In Chapter 2, the focus was on smart mapping and the role of feature layers. I learned how these layers let users visualize data in meaningful ways and how maps can be styled to highlight different patterns or trends. The tutorial in this chapter showed how to use population data to build a map that tells a clear visual story. One thing I’m curious about is how to decide which symbology or mapping method works best for a given dataset? Are there general rules, or is it mostly up to the user?

Geog 291 Application

To apply what I learned, I created a simple Web GIS app using population data from Delaware County. I used smart mapping to show areas with higher or lower populations. This kind of app could help explore local demographic trends or support planning decisions. It was a good way to practice using hosted layers and the map styling tools introduced in the chapters.

In Chapters 1 and 2 of Getting to Know Web GIS, I was introduced to the foundations of web GIS and how it connects with the broader digital geography ecosystem. I learned how ArcGIS Online is not only a mapping platform but a full suite of tools that supports interactive mapping, data sharing, and spatial analysis through the web. What stood out most was how easy it is becoming for non-experts to engage with spatial data through intuitive interfaces and web apps.

Chapter 1 discussed the growth and importance of Web GIS in the modern world, with examples across government, business, education, and environmental fields. Chapter 2 covered the basics of creating web maps, publishing data layers, and configuring pop-ups and symbology. I appreciated the real-world examples that showed how GIS is used to solve spatial problems and communicate stories effectively.

Application Idea Based on Chapters 1 & 2

Using the Delaware Data from Geog 291, I’d like to create a web map showing broadband access gaps across different counties. I could layer internet speed data, demographic information, and educational access points to highlight areas where underserved communities may lack reliable internet. This could be useful for policymakers or school districts trying to allocate funding for digital access programs.

Getting to Know Web GIS (2022, 5th edition)

Chapter 1

Web GIS is accessible and versatile with many ways for information to be shared and utilized by various organizations. The five main content types of web GIS: data, layers, tools, web maps and scenes, and apps (basemaps, operational layers, and tools are basic components). 

Depending on where the underlying data is stored, feature layers can either be hosted or nonhosted.
Hosted: A web service is based on ArcGIS- managed data (data is stored in ArcGIS Online cloud database or ArcGIS Data Store)
Nonhosted: A web service connects directly to user-managed data (data is stored and managed by an organization)

Workflow for Building Web GIS Apps = Data sources, desktop tools, ArcGIS Online/ArcGIS Enterprise, client apps

Attachment Viewer is an instant app template that allows the user to quickly build an app that presents spatial data with a feature-by-feature browsing experience and image-based display.

Chapter 1 – App

 

Chapter 2

Feature layers are the most common type of operational layers and hosted feature layers are the most widely used operational layer. Hosted feature layers, hosted Web Feature Service (WFS) layers, hosted tile layers, hosted vector tile layers, hosted Web Map Title Service (WMTS) layers, hosted scene layers, hosted image layers, and hosted map image layers are all all types of hosted layers that can be published to the Esri geospatial cloud. To publish a hosted feature layer, a user could create a feature layer from their own data, create a feature layer from an existing template, or create an empty feature layer and define their own fields interactively. 

Smart mapping uses intelligent defaults, data-driven visualizations, and innovative workflows to allow the user to share professional-quality maps easily and with minimal cartographic or software skills. 

ArcGIS Arcade allows the user to build custom expressions based on existing fields and geometries the way that Microsoft Excel allows the user to write formulas to work with their spreadsheet. 

ArcGIS Living Atlas provides basemap, imagery, boundaries, people, infrastructure, and environment content categories.

The types of blocks (components used to build a story) include sidecars, slideshow blocks, map tours, swipe blocks, and timeline blocks.

Chapter 2 – Story Map

 

Application based on ideas from Chapters 1 & 2

I could create a Flood Resilience Planning App to help Delaware County officials and residents see how new infrastructure projects might be affected by flooding. Delaware data layers like floodplain boundaries, road networks, parcel data, and elevation contours would visualize areas prone to flooding and how developments might be impacted. Users could explore “what-if” scenarios, like whether a proposed road expansion could become a flood hazard or if a new neighborhood is at risk. Interactive tools could allow users to click on specific locations to see flood risk levels, past flood events, and property ownership details.

Chapter 1 and two of the web GIS book introduced the basic and benefits of web GIS this combined web technologies with geographic information systems. The systems were global access, cost effectiveness, cross platform compatibility, and most appealing to me ease of use web GIS revolutionized spatial data analysis to where it is now used in just about every facet of life i.e. government industry, science and daily life chapter 1 focused on the key elements like user group and content it also emphasized how web GIS data sharing can make analysis easy it introduced five core GIS components data layers tools, online maps apps, which enable dynamic spatial applications. I was familiar with some of the stuff from taking 291

Chapter 2 discussed layer types in the ESRI geospatial cloud. These features were features tile scene and picture layers, and it showed how these layers could be used to create high-quality maps. I also found it interesting how arc GIS arcade allows the tailoring of layers and pop up appearances and how the capabilities enable users to interpret data better.

Hi, my name is Abbie Grogan. I am from Louisville, Kentucky and I am a Pre-professional Zoology major with a Chemistry minor. I am a junior here and I am a captain of the OWU women’s lacrosse team.

Since I took 291, I am confident in my abilities to maneuver and work through ArcGIS online. Those computers loved to give me issues last semester for the longest time, so I am very happy to avoid those now. I completed the ArcGIS Online Basics course, which introduced me to fundamental GIS concepts and highlighted the powerful features of ArcGIS Online. One of the most valuable aspects I learned about was how feature layers allow for detailed data visualization, which aids in analyzing trends across different locations. I also gained an understanding of the Web AppBuilder, a tool that enables users to create interactive applications without requiring coding skills. This makes GIS tools much more accessible to those without technical backgrounds but who still need to utilize geographic data.

The first thing I found when looking through Google Scholar was a guy named Ranjani Varaghur doing a study through Penn St University on the soil in the Big Elk Watershed area. This map is the elevation of the area he was doing his experiment.

The second map that I found was a collected list of D1 lacrosse players and where they come from. The map shows the sport has been growing nation wide as it was really only popular on the east and west coast of the US for a long time.

My name is Emily Kocel and I am a Junior double majoring in International Studies and Environmental Studies. I am from Worthington, Ohio. I love animals and have always grown up with at least two cats and a dog. I like to draw and watch TV in my free time.

I am a little bit familiar with ArcgGIS Online from taking the previous GEOG 291 course. However it was good to explore and take the time to familiarize myself with the website. I added the basic stuff to my profile like a picture. There are a lot of different courses offered in the Training tab. There are options for individuals or for organizations. I like the community section where people can share their experiences with other people using GIS.

When reading the introduction to what ArcGIS Online is, I found a lot of helpful information. It starts with just a basic overview of what it is, which is a cloud based mapping and analysis solution to make maps, and analyze data, all of which can be shared and collaborated. There are many different things that can be done using ArcOnline such as creating maps, scene apps and notebooks.

The web training ArcGIS online basics was very informative. The beginning talked about different content types, some of which I already knew such as layers. All map and web scenes have layers, each with different data. Together these layers make maps. Scenes are similar to maps except you can visualize from a 3D environment. Apps are new to me, they allow you to control how other users interact with maps and scenes.

 

I first searched up ArcGIS and deforestation.  ArcGIS Online can be used to analyze deforestation. The Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) uses ArcGIS Online to monitor deforestation across the nation. They can gather real time information on activities such as mining, wildfires, and agriculture which are all drivers of deforestation.

https://www.esri.com/about/newsroom/arcnews/dashboards-help-monitor-and-abate-forest-loss-in-guyana/

 

The second thing I looked into was ArcGIS Online and water resource management. It took me to the esri website where there were  different types of water management. One that caught my attention was sewer data management. It said that Sewer Data Management can be used to map separate sewer assets, edit data, view system maps in field and office, view asset reports, and collaborate with map notes. It was developed for state and local governments, airports, ports, and rails, and for facilities. 

https://doc.arcgis.com/en/arcgis-solutions/latest/reference/introduction-to-sewer-data-management.htm

https://learn.arcgis.com/en/projects/get-started-with-arcgis-utility-network-for-wastewater/

My name is Colin Counahan. I am a Junior on the Lacrosse team. I am from the greater Columbus area. I am majoring in Education Studies and am minoring in Communications, Religion, and History. In my free time, I enjoy traveling and playing golf.

The first chapter of Nadine Schuurman’s GIS: A Short Introduction gives an insightful overview of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and their impact on various fields. It begins by highlighting how GIS has become essential in modern life, influencing industries such as navigation, urban planning, healthcare, and even retail. Despite its wide use, many people remain unaware of how GIS shapes their daily lives.One keyArcGIS Online Basics_Certificate_03212025 takeaway is how GIS is more than just mapping software. It combines spatial analysis with computer science, enabling users to visualize and interpret complex data. The chapter discusses the historical development of GIS, noting its roots in cartography and its evolution through technological advancements. I found it fascinating how early GIS methods relied on physical overlays of maps, a technique that later inspired computerized systems. It shows how simple ideas can lead to groundbreaking technology. A particularly interesting point is GIS’s identity crisis. It can mean different things to different people—a tool for city planners to map zones or a philosophical framework for researchers to analyze spatial data. This versatility is a strength, but it also makes GIS challenging to define. The author does a great job of explaining how GIS bridges quantitative methods with intuitive visualizations, making data more accessible and impactful. What stood out most was the emphasis on visualization. Maps and graphs are not just tools; they’re powerful ways to uncover patterns and tell stories. The example of Dr. John Snow’s cholera map in 1854 demonstrates how visualization can solve real-world problems.Overall, the chapter effectively conveys the importance and complexity of GIS while raising thoughtful questions about its societal and ethical implications. It made me think about how technology influences our perception of the world and how critical it is to use it responsibly.

#1: My search was “wolf telemetry GIS applications”

I found an example of GIS applications in wildlife management through the study of Yellowstone wolf pack territories. This map, titled “2021 Yellowstone Wolf Pack Territories,” represents the spatial distribution of wolf packs using aerial location data. The map highlights several wolf pack territories, such as Wapiti Lake, Mollies, and Junction Butte. GIS is vital for tracking these packs, helping researchers understand their movement patterns, territory size, and interactions with prey and other wildlife. This information informs management strategies to maintain a healthy balance within Yellowstone’s ecosystem, as wolves are keystone predators.This GIS application also benefits park visitors and staff by identifying areas where wolf activity is prominent, aiding in both educational outreach and safety measures. 

Source: National Park Service, Yellowstone Wolf Project Report

#2 Crime patterns in Cleveland

I found an example of GIS applications in urban safety management through the study of crime patterns in Cleveland, Ohio. This map, titled “Cleveland Crime Density Map,” represents the spatial distribution of crime rates across various neighborhoods. The map highlights areas with higher concentrations of criminal activity, such as Downtown, Glenville, and Clark-Fulton. GIS is vital for tracking crime incidents, helping law enforcement agencies understand where resources are most needed and enabling them to allocate patrols more effectively. Additionally, this technology supports policymakers and urban planners in addressing underlying factors that contribute to crime in specific areas. This GIS application also benefits residents and community organizations by raising awareness about local safety concerns and encouraging engagement in neighborhood improvement initiatives.

Source: Neighborhood Source: Zillow

 

ArcGIS Online Basics_Certificate_03212025ArcGIS Online Basics_Certificate_03212025