Your Global Geospatial Briefing for May 27th: Mapbox+Spatial Networks; Firearm mortality; Mobi; Tableau 2019.2

GeoIgnite sponsors make new partnership

Mapbox and Spatial Networks are joining forces to help customers leverage geospatial technology. By integrating Spatial Networks’ Fulcrum application and Mapbox Atlas, the companies can now offer an end-to-end mapping solution for field users in humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and military scenarios. First responders, aid organizations, and insurance adjusters can collect accurate data and begin creating mapping solutions in real time. Says Anthony Calamito, Director of Government Programs for Mapbox: “Our two organizations have a rich history of supporting customers solving tough problems… Combining Fulcrum with Mapbox Atlas will enable enhanced, real-time collection and collaboration capabilities in the field, creating an unparalleled offering. Beyond just a technology partnership, we share similar corporate values in a desire to support the mission.”

Mapbox and Spatial Networks will be exhibitors at GeoIgnite 2019.

Demographic study of firearm deaths shows strong evidence of avoidability

An analysis of statistical data on firearm mortality rates in the USA, Mexico, Brazil, and Colombia has been undertaken to track changes and demographic determinants of firearm deaths between 1990 and 2015. By extracting medically-certified deaths and underlying population denominators, the authors were able to calculate the age and sex-specific firearm mortality and risk by education, race,and ethnicity. The study, which was funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the University of Toronto Connaught Global Challenge, is an effort to properly document registration data on firearm deaths in the Pan-American region. The study found strong evidence of avoidability, and also of the importance of educational level and race, in the rapid fluctuations in death rates among subpopulations.

Tableau 2019.2 gets a boost from Mapbox

Tableau has released a line of new features designed for location-based analytics and vector maps powered by Mapbox. The release of 2019.2 represents an overhaul of Tableau’s mapping technology, combining location and geospatial technology with analytics and mapping tools for the purpose of streamlining predictions. Mapbox is providing new background mapping layers like subways, train stations, terrain, and water labels. Tableau is also adding parameter actions, visual tools for web authoring, customized server home pages, dashboard features, and AskData updates. Tableau 2019.2 is destined to step up the mapping game.

Mobi grand challenge enters second phase

The Mobility Open Blockchain Initiative (Mobi) has begun the second phase of the three-year Mobi grand challenge, Citopia. The non-profit consortium will offer more than $1 million in prizes over a three-year period to developers who explore blockchain solutions for smart city applications to improve urban environments. The goal of the challenge is to create a viable, decentralized network of blockchain connected vehicles, IoT, and smart infrastructure for sharing data, facilitating transactions, and improving urban life. Citopia submissions will promote the creation of greener and smarter cities through carbon footprint management, congestion pricing, multi-modal transit, data exchange, and micro-payments.