Geo Visualizer

Using Geo Visualizer to open and explore spatial data from Rundu, Namibia


Geo Visualizer is a tool that enables anyone without GIS software or expertise to open and explore geospatial data files such as GeoJSON, Shapefile, csv.

Based on our work with different stakeholders, we have observed that some local authorities face challenges in accessing digital infrastructure. In certain cases, urban planners do not have the necessary server capacity or software to open and explore their own spatial data. This can limit opportunities for collaboration.

To address this, we developed a tool designed to function without a server and without being constrained by fixed data table structures, supporting quicker access to insights and analysis.

The workflow is completely offline. Users can start using the tool by simply double clicking the html file. This will open the tool in their browser, and then the user can click upload, and select their geospatial files to visualize the data on a map as well as get a sense of data distribution of various attributes and metadata. We have also adapted the tool to support explorations of surveys data to easily obtain insights about the data in support of informal settlements upgrading. The tool deploys simple web technologies.


SDGS Digital Impact

Who is it for?

  • National, regional and local governments
  • UN-Habitat teams
Stakeholders viewing spatial data from Rundu during a workshop

Want to use the tool in your region?

Contact unitac@un.org for more information about how to use the tool in your region.

Partners

  • Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)
  • Inclusive and Sustainable Urban Development (ISUD) Namibia
Features icon

Features and functionalities

The Geo Visualizer

  • Removes the barrier of entry for working with geospatial data, making the tool useful for people with limited technical background.
  • Helps users see the benefits of collecting location information.
  • Supports analysis at different stages of data management. For instance, during data collection, it can highlight progress or any challenges with data that should be fixed as the data collection progresses.

Scalability

  • Geo Visualizer is a tool that facilitates the exploration of spatial data. This is especially relevant for engaging non-technical stakeholders who are not familiar with existing GIS software.
  • Research projects that are committed to non-extractive data collection, can use this tool to return valuable datasets to the public and research participants.
  • Development projects can adopt this tool in their public participation processes to enable meaningful feedback from non-technical members of the public.