Cloud GIS provides North Devon with easy access to streamlined service information

North Devon Council (NDC) has selected location intelligence company Cadcorp to supply cloud hosted web mapping. The contract was awarded using the G-Cloud procurement framework and includes Cadcorp SIS Desktop and Cadcorp SIS WebMap. Cadcorp is providing a range of onboarding services, including project management and training, as well as an ongoing managed service.

When the existing mapping software at NDC unexpectedly reached end-of-life, the council required a quick turnaround for a replacement system. Following a supplier review, they selected Cadcorp SIS for its functionality, ease of use, cost-effectiveness, and the company's ability to quickly onboard the new system before the required go-live date. Moreover, Cadcorp Cloud GIS includes cybersecurity and disaster recovery features that enable external staff access to the system and preserve service to the public. Cadcorp maintains the system as part of an ongoing managed service, including applying updates without impacting the council's technical resources.

SIS WebMap is an easy-to-use application that shares map-based information on both PCs and mobile devices. NDC departments have access to a corporate web map, which includes planning applications, building control applications, flood zones, grounds maintenance, LLPG property layers, aerial imagery, land charges, and local plans. The application is ideal for council departments undertaking a wide range of specific duties. For example, the Street Naming and Numbering department uses the software to check address proximities, and the Revenues department uses it to check addresses, locations, and occupation status.

The council has deployed a public-facing web map, including the Cadcorp Local Knowledge application, that returns answers to questions about a locality. This allows members of the public to independently access information on planning applications, public facilities, amenities, grounds maintenance, tree preservation orders, and the adopted Local Plan. This has reduced the number of enquiries made to the council via email and telephone.

Jon Pine, GIS Development Team Lead at North Devon Council, commented: “Cadcorp SIS WebMap is such a powerful tool. It’s so versatile, making it easy for the entire council and the public to access the information they need. The Cadcorp onboarding service was superb. They listened to our requirements and provided us with a team of technology experts who ensured the transition went smoothly and ahead of our deadline.”

Cadcorp is supporting councils throughout the UK to migrate their legacy systems and data into the cloud. GIS technology in the cloud can bring significant benefits to local authorities and other public sector organisations. It has the potential to reduce both the overall cost of ownership and the administration overhead of keeping software and data up to date. Cadcorp is an approved GIS supplier on G-Cloud. Further details about Cadcorp cloud services are available here.

www.cadcorp.com