Integration of Open Source GIS Software for Improving Decision Making in Small and Medium Companies

Abstract

In this paper, a prototype is proposed of integrating various features and functionalities of different open source GIS software to improve decision-making in small and medium companies. The paper shows possibilities of integrating various open source GIS software to support decision making. Open source software features is combined with the functionalities of GIS such as processing using Quantum GIS, storing and analyzing of spatial data to produce results using PostgreSQL, Providing and sharing Geo-data over the network locally or over the globe using Geoserver, The prototype is based on the three basics features low /free cost of using GIS open source software, simplicity and usability, multiplatform supporting. The integration of open source software is appropriate and successful for the use of companies in the field of GIS, this initiative represents a suitable business solutions that do not consume a lot of money and training to develop the skills of the technicians in this field, therefore, this will open the door for other companies to follow this trend. This prototype provides an opportunity for open source software components to process and store data in databases or shares the results over different networks.