Leveraging GIS and Mobile Technology for Efficient Road Data Collection: A Case Study with GetMap

Data is the basic requirement in information derivation across all fields of study. And this is especially true for transportation engineering, where road and traffic-related data are essential for getting meaningful results. The traditional methods of road data collection involve extensive preparation, manual works, and use of paper forms. These methods are time-consuming and expensive. With the growth of information technology and the widespread availability of the internet, we have entered an era of real-time data capture and sharing. This study introduces a user-friendly mobile application, GetMap, designed for real-time road data collection and sharing. The Android based app records users travel path and also collects road related data and uploads the information to Firebase cloud server. App’s key functionalities include recording travel tracks, adding road inventory and cross-sectional details, and marking points of interest with photographs. The app outputs are generated as KML files and Excel sheets, facilitating facile integration with GIS platforms. Getmap will be an effective tool for road data collection agencies like Public Works Departments (PWD), transportation planners, and road safety authorities.