Geocoding is a process through which an address (such as a street address) is converted into geographical coordinates (latitude and longitude). These coordinates can then be used to place a mark on the map or give an exact position on the map.
It does not always have to be an address that is changed into coordinates; you can even give the name of a place. Geocoding is now commonly used in today’s society, especially since the Global Position System (GPS) now plays a huge role in everyone’s life. Initially, you add the geocodes in a file, and then this file can be saved in several formats such as geocoding csv, xlsx, and so on. The geocode is then used and changed into proper coordinates to a place by individuals or with the help of another application.
What Are the Uses of Geocoding?
Geocoding has several uses that range from simple data analysis to the management of customers. With the help of geocoded addresses, you can easily display the address location and are able to recognize different patterns of information. There are many other uses of geocodes, such as:
- Analysis of Address Data
With the help of geocoded addresses, you can display the location and address and understand where the location is pointing to. This can easily be done by viewing the information given to you by using analysis tools. These analysis tools allow you to better understand where exactly the geocode is pinning the address.
- Creating Records
Geocoding is also used to create records such as a record on burglaries in a certain area. Burglaries record were initially created through the use of a geocoding database that would give the address of every site that was looted. Geocode is capable of giving the time, season, and day of the week in which a certain event has taken place granted that this information was added into the geocode.
- Data Management
Geocoding plays a huge role in customer data management. Almost every organization maintains the address information for every single one of their customers and clients. The format of this information is usually in “tabular” format. This format contains the customer’s name, address, and buying habits.
More information may be available depending on the amount of data you have covered about your customer. Geocoding will then allow you to take your customer’s data and convert it into a map. You can use this information for creating marketing strategies, which will allow you to target a cluster of customers that will help in the production of maps and directions.
- Distributing Geocoding Applications
You can distribute geocodes in various ways, and the information it will include can be collected through various sources. The information is then shared through compressed files, using a compact disk, or by developing an online application that will allow online users to geocode the information over the internet.
Conclusion
The use of geocoding has increased in the past decade as it provides an accurate description of locations and has now become a must in society. Geocoding has helped online businesses to thrive in the 21st century as packages and customer’s wants get delivered easily through its help.
