Workshops

We will be having 4 half day workshops on Monday May 4th, 2009.

Introduction to Open Source GIS - A Practical Approach

Michael Gerlek, Karsten Vennemann, Aaron Racicot, & Dane Springmeyer

The “Cascadia Users of Geospatial Open Source” group, a Chapter of the Open Source Geospatial Foundation (OSGEO) will be presenting the use and functionality of Open source GIS solutions. The workshop includes presentations, a discussion panel with a Q &A session and lots of live examples. Participants are encouraged to bring a laptop and can follow some demos ‘hands-on” using the live CD and wireless internet access. The workshop consists of four main parts as follows:

  • Introduction to the world of Free and Open Source GIS (FOSS4G) and make-up of the OS community including crucial information about licensing.
  • Overview of Open Source desktop GIS and their capabilities and more detailed information on selected desktop tools. This will include live demos of desktop tools and exercises that participants can follow on their laptop
  • Introduction and overview about interoperable Web GIS tools, frameworks and their capabilities. Overview of projects involving the GeoDjango framework (a content management system with GIS capabilities) and Mapnik a modern, versatile map rendering engine with excellent cartographic output.
  • Interactive "Discussion Panel" and Q&A about OS GIS Solutions, how to integrate OS GIS into existing architectures and experiences from other users


Designing Great Web Maps

John Sharrard, ESRI

A great web map is one that’s designed for the end user - it’s fast, good looking and contains as much pre-computed information as possible to bring the web application to life. This workshop will focus on the technology and design elements that are available to make great web map applications. Topics will include: advanced cartography, caching systems, dynamic maps (including a look at the new ArcGIS 9.3.1 technology), testing tips, and web map templates. We will also discuss what pitfalls to avoid when developing great web maps.


Creating Fast Web Mapping Applications with JavaScript

Scott Moore, ESRI

Find out how to get started creating effective, fast, mashup-style web mapping applications. Learn how to build lightweight mapping applications with just a few lines of script and embed these programs into any web site using ArcGIS Server. See how to overlay your ArcGIS Server Services on top of ArcGIS Online and other online base maps. Learn how to leverage the newest tools, layers, and the ArcGIS Server Resource Center to create mashup applications. Leverage ArcGIS Server 9.3.1 high-performance dynamic map services to reduce map rendering time and shorten the map caching process.


Cartography & Map Production

Jaime Crawford, CH2M HILL

The fruits of most GIS Analysts labor ends up being maps, and the final judgment of our hard work comes down to what people think of the final paper product. Improving the cartographic quality of your maps allows you to communicate geographic information more clearly and can give GIS analysts and departments more credibility within their organization and the community. This workshop will cover the practical approaches and techniques for map production and focus on meeting the needs of the intended audience. Topics will include:

  • Artistic design, including map composition, proper use of colors, fonts, and page layouts.
  • Technical tips and tricks including designing templates, style guides and utilizing automation tools
  • Map production workflow recommendations to create the highest quality map product in the least amount of time
  • Overview of readily available resources for self-learning and cartographic advice
  • Throughout the workshop examples (both good and bad) will be used to demonstrate cartographic principles and map intent.