April 2021 Summaries

CARTO has introduced a Spatial Extension for Google BigQuery, enhancing its spatial analytics capabilities with over 50 new functions and procedures that can be used directly within the data warehouse environment. The extension is built on top of an open-source core layer, which provides support for key spatial indices such as H3 and quadkeys. It also leverages CARTO's Data Observatory, a large spatial data catalog, to provide users with a wide range of analytical possibilities. With its multilayered approach, the Spatial Extension aims to democratize access to advanced geospatial analytics capabilities, making it possible for users to perform complex analyses without requiring painful ETL processes or extensive programming knowledge.

The 51st annual Earth Day highlighted the importance of sustainability, and companies are using Location Intelligence to support this goal. Indigo Ag is using Location Intelligence to improve agricultural sustainability by harnessing nature to sustainably feed the planet. They have created a replicable process to aggregate analyze and visualize disparate datasets in user-friendly maps for key stakeholders. Wecity is using Location Intelligence to drive sustainable mobility strategies by rewarding citizens using greener transport methods such as cycling. PMI is increasing its participation in clean-up activities to raise awareness of cigarette butt littering, and has implemented a data-driven approach to assess the prevalence of cigarette butt litter across the globe. Enveritas is using Location Intelligence to improve the sustainability of supply chains for smallholder coffee growers. Global Forest Watch makes the best available data about forests available online for free, supporting smarter decisions about how to manage and protect forests. Azavea used Location Intelligence tools to build projects that support the implementation and documentation of a comprehensive sustainability plan in Philadelphia.

The project utilized BigQuery as a primary tool for analysis and data processing, along with GitHub Actions for data extraction and uploading. CARTO's Spatial Analytics in BigQuery was used to generate random points representing the US population and create tilesets for visualization. The application also leveraged socio-demographic population data from the 2018 American Community Survey, which was already loaded in BigQuery by CARTO. The project involved a two-stage process for calculating vaccination status attributes for each point based on county-level CDC data. The resulting tilesets were used to visualize the progress of the COVID-19 vaccination rollout across the US.

Visualizing COVID-19 Vaccination Progress at the Individual Level` is a project that aims to provide a unique visualization of the COVID-19 vaccination progress at an individual level, using data from the CDC and socio-demographic population data. The app allows users to track the vaccination status of each citizen in their area and see how it's likely to progress over time, providing insights into the speed and efficacy of the vaccine rollout across the US. The project uses BigQuery Spatial Extension, CARTO for React, and dasymetric analysis to create a map-based visualization that can inform policy decisions, guide vaccine distribution, and enhance citizen visibility. By combining vaccination data with socio-demographic population data, the app provides a more accurate representation of the vaccine rollout progress at an individual level, enabling users to see how different areas are progressing towards herd immunity. The project's goal is to help achieve the US government's objective of "getting back to normal by July 4th Independence Day."

Aena's Indoor Mapping & Routing App Expands to Barcelona` Aena, a Spanish airport operator, has expanded its indoor mapping solution called "AenaMaps" to include support for Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport Terminal 1. The app allows passengers to navigate through the airport's indoor environments, visualize their journey, and locate key points of interest such as restaurants, shops, toilets, or security controls. With the expansion to Barcelona, AenaMaps will be available in both Madrid and Barcelona airports, enabling millions of passengers to more effectively navigate these indoor spaces. The solution was developed by a collaboration between Aena, CARTO, and Situm, with the goal of providing a superior customer experience through innovative solutions.

The COVID pandemic has had a significant impact on brick and mortar retail, with some brands adapting effectively while others struggle. A new report explores current site selection strategies and how Advanced Spatial Analytics and Data Science techniques can be used to help retailers adapt and thrive in a post-pandemic world. The report features case studies from around the globe, highlighting opportunities for site expansion or consolidation, as well as examples of how Location Intelligence and Spatial Data Science approaches can drive expansion decisions and predict store performance. By leveraging modern spatial data streams and incorporating Advanced Spatial Analysis techniques, retailers can make more informed decisions about their estate, maintain a competitive advantage, and adapt to changing consumer demands.