Should utilities use APIs, Web Services or downloaded GIS datasets?

Mapping APIs, web services and data downloads can all give utilities access to geospatial data and information. The best option depends on what teams need to do with the data, how frequently it changes, and which systems need to consume it.

Downloaded GIS data gives you greater control.

Downloading a dataset allows it to be stored and managed within the utility’s own environment. This can be useful for complex analysis, offline working, large processing tasks or established workflows built around locally held data.

The trade-off is management. Updates need to be obtained, processed and distributed, and organisations need to make sure different teams aren’t working with different versions.

Web services provide maintained access to mapping and features.

Services such as WMS, WMTS and WFS deliver geospatial information directly into compatible GIS and other applications. Instead of repeatedly downloading new files, teams connect to a managed data source.

This can reduce storage and update administration, particularly where many users need continuing access to authoritative mapping.

APIs support more targeted integration.

Mapping APIs allows applications to request particular data or functionality when it’s needed. For utilities, APIs can be useful when location information needs to become part of an application, automated process or wider business workflow rather than simply another layer in desktop GIS.

The OS National Geographic Database (OS NGD), for example, supports several delivery approaches, allowing organisations to access its detailed geographic information according to their technical and operational requirements.

So which is best? A mapping API, or downloaded GIS dataset, or a web service – WMS, WMTS, or WFS?

In short, much will depend on short and long term intentions, and how GIS is viewed across a business – as a peripheral tool, or as a fundamental part of long term strategy. That said, downloads make sense when control and intensive local processing are priorities. Web services work well when consistent, maintained access is important. APIs become particularly valuable when geospatial information needs to be integrated programmatically into applications and processes.

Many utilities will need a mixture of all three. The better question isn’t which delivery method should replace the others, but which one removes unnecessary work from each particular workflow.

Idox Geospatial can supply authoritative geospatial data through downloads, APIs and managed web services, including OS NGD. We can help utilities match the delivery method to the job – so a network-planning team, enterprise application and specialist GIS workflow don’t all have to consume location data in exactly the same way.

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