2025 WA GIS Conference

Disasters don’t wait—so why should we? While many organizations rely on GIS for post-disaster response, the real power of geospatial technology lies in proactive preparedness. By leveraging ArcGIS and Esri Disaster solutions before disasters, agencies can predict risks, optimize response strategies, plan evacuations, and mitigate damage, ultimately saving lives and resources all this while having Business continuity. This session will explore the transformative role of ArcGIS in disaster resilience, showcasing possible scenarios where predictive analytics, real-time data, and spatial modeling can empower agencies to stay ahead of emergencies. We’ll discuss best practices in risk mapping, scenario planning, and evacuation mapping. From government agencies to utilities and emergency management teams, organizations that shift from reactive to proactive ArcGIS strategies gain a critical edge. Join us to learn how to future-proof your operations and build a smarter, more resilient response framework—before disaster strikes.

Street-level 360˚ imagery and LiDAR is revolutionizing how infrastructure is managed, from utility and telecommunication networks to public works assets, roads and real estate. It is also critical to the next major computing platform. This session will discuss how several important use cases are addressed using street-level data to maximize savings, minimize time, and mitigate risk, with an emphasis on it augmenting rather than replacing other valuable data sources such as aerial and satellite imagery.

High-resolution aerial imagery is a game-changer for GIS professionals, providing unparalleled accuracy and detail that supports critical decision-making across multiple sectors. This presentation will explore how advanced aerial imagery enhances GIS data integrity for public safety agencies, urban and regional planning departments, utility providers, and land use managers.

By integrating high-resolution imagery with GIS workflows, professionals can improve situational awareness, conduct precise asset mapping, and streamline operations such as emergency response planning, zoning assessments, and infrastructure management. Case studies will demonstrate how agencies leverage updated imagery to reduce errors, enhance predictive modeling, and improve resource allocation.

Attendees will gain insights into the latest advancements in aerial imaging technology, best practices for incorporating high-resolution datasets, and the future of remote sensing applications in GIS. Whether optimizing emergency response routes, refining parcel data, or enhancing vegetation management, high-resolution aerial imagery is a powerful tool for maximizing the accuracy and effectiveness of GIS-driven solutions.

The combination of imagery, big data, analytics, and the ever-expanding capabilities of the Enterprise GIS stack makes migrating from on-premise to the cloud an increasingly attractive option. But where do you begin?

A well-structured migration plan—one that answers the who, what, when, where, why, and how—can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth transition and maximizing the benefits for your organization.

In this 20–25 minute session, we’ll address the top questions and concerns organizations face when considering a move to the cloud. You'll gain insights into:
• Who on your team should be involved in the migration process
• What GIS services, imagery, and databases need to be migrated
• When to expect key milestones and cost considerations
• Where to explore cloud provider options
• Why migrating to the cloud enhances performance, scalability, and collaboration
• How to kick-start your cloud journey with proven migration best practices

Join us to learn how to plan, execute, and demonstrate the value of modernizing your GIS in the cloud.