Architecting solutions for distributing NIMA geospatial data and services to all variety of users

Co - Author: Lara Bordick - Logicon, Inc. contractor for National Imagery and Mapping Agency
6317 Fitzhugh Dr.
Corpus Christi TX 78414
USA
Phone 361-991-1844
Fax 361-991-2386
lbordick@logicon.com

Co - Author: Nicole Soltyka - SAIC contractor for National Imagery and Mapping Agency
8301 Greensboro Dr.
MS E-4-5
McLean VA 22102
USA
Phone 703-676-4118
Fax
soltykan@saic.com


Abstract:The National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA) has expanded its user base in recent years to include its traditional customers, the US Military and its allies, plus academics, commercial organizations and non-DOD government customers. To meet the demands of these varied users NIMA moved from providing simple product delivery to providing on-line geospatial information access. NIMA also has information assurance requirements that dictate designs supporting easy replication, load balancing, mobile code compliance, versatile and expandable interfaces and user customization options. To meet these demands NIMA decided to leverage its services with Esri and Oracle products and to embrace several standards based technologies including OpenGIS Web Mapping and Web Feature Servers, NSDI Clearinghouse and Esri's Geography Network. In addition to the traditional MILSTD products, NIMA is migrating their geospatial information to directly accessible on-line map services. Using a combination of ArcIMS, SDE for Oracle, Esri OpenGIS software and custom servlets, NIMA is able to distribute data through a polished, easy to use web site and through highly customizable image, feature and extract services. The hope is that this architecture framework will satisfy the defense and intelligence communities' complex assortment of geospatial requirements as well as provide an effective means for public use of NIMA geospatial information.