Environmental Information Systems
Information technologies allow users to integrate and analyze data from wide ranging sources and present results as graphics, maps, animations, and other interactive tools. We offer a unique blend of subject matter expertise and knowledge of cutting-edge information technologies. We excel at helping clients realize the promise of these new technologies by creating reliable custom environmental information systems.
Focus Areas
- Data management and database. We use the latest spatial and relational database software to create systems that integrate data, eliminate redundant storage, and provide security and backup. We work extensively with acquiring, cleaning, integrating, and loading data into data systems to ensure that the systems contain reliable information.
- Web applications. We develop dynamic Web applications that collect and present environmental data to audiences nationwide and worldwide. We use the latest tools to create interactive applications that provide users with tailored presentations of complex information.
- Training and user support. Our system development support does not end with building a software system. We also design and deliver training and user support that ensures systems are adopted by their target audiences and their benefits are fully exploited.
Capabilities
- Systems life-cycle development. We tailor our system life-cycle development processes to the project requirements, schedule, budget, and system complexity. We use both traditional waterfall processes and more accelerated and iterative processes that help clients clarify their needs prior to system implementation.
- Business process analysis. Information systems frequently are needed to support work processes. We work with clients to define, and in some cases to modify, their work processes as a first step towards designing systems to support those processes.
- Database design and Implementation. We define efficient data structures for managing critical data. By creating a strong database foundation, we simplify the tasks of storing, maintaining, and updating data.
- Data management. Any software system, no matter how well designed, is only as good as the data it contains. We have worked extensively with acquiring, cleaning, integrating, and loading data into data systems.
- Data visualization. Frequently, the key to understanding data is to have effective ways of presenting the data. From charts and graphs to 3-D presentations to cartographic presentations, we bring a variety of tools to the visualization of environmental data.
- Web design. We develop dynamic Web applications that collect and present environmental data to audiences nationwide and worldwide. We use the latest tools to create interactive applications that provide users with tailored presentations of complex information.
- System security. Data can be highly sensitive information that must be protected from tampering and accidental or malicious release. We build secure applications that ensure data are only available to authorized users.
- Training design and delivery. We provide training and other user support services to ensure that users understand how to use environmental information systems correctly and efficiently. We use adult learning techniques that focus on realistic, hands-on exercises. We provide a range of training options, from hard-copy user manuals and tutorials, to in-person classroom training and self-paced electronic training delivery via DVD and the Web.
Technologies and Tools
- Database. We develop database applications using Oracle, SQL Server, and open-source solutions such as PostgreSQL and MySQL, so we can support applications that will work in most government, commercial, and academic environments.
- Programming. We write applications using Java, C# .NET, and VB .NET. We keep current with the latest development frameworks to deliver highly functional solutions in an efficient manner.
- Web. We use a variety of development tools to rapidly generate Web sites and to develop highly functional and visually appealing Web presentations. We routinely use XML, HTML, Javascript, Flash, and Flex technologies. We also take advantage of development tools such as DotNetNuke, Eclipse, and Dreamweaver to accelerate delivery.
- Statistics. We bring world class statistics capabilities and software tools such as SAS, S-Plus, and R to analyze data and identify underlying data relationships.
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