Everyone is a Data Collector!
Here is a screenshot of a great Crowdsource Reporter Application in use by Dupage County, IL.
No one knows the features of an area like the people who inhabit it. However, to collect city or county wide data, there would be a sizable investment of personnel, time, and money. But what if it didn't have to cost an arm and a leg? What if you could create an army of data collectors who knew the area, and were willing to help document problems with features or infrastructure? With Esri's Crowdsource Reporter Application, you can turn Joan Q. Citizen into a pseudo public works employee; having them collect data within the area they live.
Here is a sample screen shot of Esri's Crowdsource Reporter Application in action.
The process is pretty straight forward. Once you have an idea of what you want to collect (pot holes, utility lights burnt out, damaged signs, blight, etc...), you can customize the Crowdsource Reporter Application to reflect the data you want collected. By creating a public facing application, citizens can access it and input the desired information. Creating and customizing the application is only one step. Another hurdle to consider is how you are going to get the public to not only be aware of the application, but to buy in and start using it. Certain organizations have used different incentives to gain public support and cooperation. Whether it's free use of public spaces that traditionally cost money, or a prize awarded to the citizen who contributes the most, there are several ways that you can spur engagement.
So I ask you this question; "What can your citizens work on collecting for you?"
Please don't hesitate to contact Cloudpoint if you have any questions regarding Esri's Crowdsource Reporter Application, and we'll be happy to answer them.
As always, you can reach us at 877-377-8124 or online at our website www.cloudpointgeo.com
Cloudpoint Geographics
Where. IT MATTERS