Paper # 574

Title: Smart Management of Digital Geospatial Imagery and Analysis

Author: Miriam Buzi

Lockheed Martin

Abstract: Digital geospatial imagery presents unique challenges for archiving, retrieval, tracking, distributing and analyzing. These large, complex imagery files and associated reports represent valuable assets that, if properly managed, can shorten the cycle and improve the accuracy of geospatial analysis. The author describes an integrated solution for geospatial imagery and analysis management that automates the cataloging, distributing, tracking, and preserving of all the original files and derivative products. Through a single browser interface, users retrieve imagery and reports and download their analysis tools. Solutions are scalable and individually configured for required processing speed, total storage, and simultaneous users.

 

Outside the Box

The increase in size, complexity and availability of high resolution digital geospatial imagery has underscored the need for smart management of the source files and derived analysis and reports. The improvised storage solution – typically a box of CD’s under a desk – has grown beyond our ability to efficiently retrieve what we need. At the same time, the intrinsic and dollar value of our digital imagery assets clearly call for retiring that box of CD’s in favor of a more effective method of cataloging and sharing data.

So what’s keeping us from doing something about it? Some of the barriers are commonplace business and time pressures. We may fear that any technology we buy will soon become obsolete. Or we may see digital storage getting cheaper and think waiting might be a good financial decision. Additionally, digital asset management is usually not a budgeted item. And even if it is, we’re confused by the multitude of options. Finally – we have no time to become efficient!

Beginning at the End

One key to overcoming the barriers to more efficient management of digital imagery and files is the realization that there is a better end state we need to achieve. A difficult yet necessary first step for any organization on the road to achieving efficient imagery handling is to assess its own needs. In defining your requirements, it is important to address not only the current workflow methods, but also the ideal state you are trying to achieve. Before you look at any technology solutions, you should document your own processes and projections. Some of the major points to consider:

In addition to the quantifiable system requirements, it is important to articulate the essential mission of the organization and how geospatial imagery and analysis supports that mission. Any system selected needs to serve that mission, and ultimately, your customers.

Milestones on the Road to Smart Imagery Management

Requirements definition as described above is the first milestone on the road to smart imagery management, and one that will likely take several iterations to complete. Compile a first draft and review internally before you begin discussions with vendors.

Once the needs are initially defined, a process of hardware and software selection can begin. Software selection for a total imagery management solution comprises tools for processing incoming imagery and files, for distribution, archiving, protection and preservation of files over time, and, of course, for analysis and reporting. An integrated digital imagery and file management solution balances functionality of the total software suite, overall hardware performance needs and interoperability requirements.

Hardware selection for a digital imagery management solution also takes into account considerations of cost-effectiveness, compatibility and seamless integration of diverse components, as well as providing for their future maintenance, and ensuring scalability and ability to accept upgrades.

An experienced systems integrator will employ a system optimization process weighing the system parameters such as cost, capacity and speed against candidate configurations and such considerations as existing hardware.

Once a hardware/software solution is defined, facilities, utilities and networks need to be surveyed and perhaps modified before installation and check out of the system can occur. Finally, a plan for training of staff in the system and a roadmap for maintenance and future upgrades need to be devised.

Except for requirement definition, all of the above steps can be squarely placed in the experienced hands of integrators and solutions providers.

A Customizable System Solution

A Lockheed Martin technology, recently licensed for resale to the commercial market, has been providing integrated, customized digital imagery and file management solutions for over 15 years. In May 2001, Lockheed Martin announced that its commercially available Intelligent Library System was deployed to capture thousands of Gigabyte-size satellite images per day and securely store millions of images and files for easy and rapid retrieval. Since that time, different configurations have been delivered to capture, process and manage not just imagery and text, but also digital video and audio data critical for applications outside geospatial analysis.

Despite their diverse applications, configurations and capacity, these systems share common characteristics and automated features, including:

Thanks to the flexibility inherent in the design of the system, additional features are added based on feedback and requirements from customers and end-users.

Consider Carefully; Act Expeditiously

Before selecting any imagery and file management system, weigh the options against your business and operational criteria. Will it provide efficient processing and distribution? Ease of use? Access to and preservation of imagery and files? Protection from unauthorized interception? Assess its ability to scale to future needs, to adapt to changes in workflow patterns, new file types and standards, new applications software and future hardware and storage technology. Consider whether your integrator can serve as a partner on the road forward, providing ongoing expertise to keep ahead of ever-changing technologies.

But most importantly, consider carefully what employing such a system will do for your customers. If you can shorten the time to produce product for them, decrease cost, improve quality, or provide a new and valuable service, you’ve got all the justification you need – and no time to waste.

 

Miriam Buzi

408-743-7871

miriam.buzi@lmco.com