Spatial Innovation @ CUI

What happens when you take a spreadsheet full of data and put it on a map? Innovation. Each year the Canadian Urban Institute has been pushing the limits of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to develop new ways to collect, manage, analyze and display data. GIS enables us to answer questions related to the placement of green energy facilities, the relationship between transit planning and where people work, the financial impacts of an infrastructure investment, the use and optmization of natural resources, and the fostering of cultural resources in our communities.

By using GIS we are able to process data in order to discover patterns, trends, and relationships inherent in geographic space that otherwise could be seen in a table, list, or chart.

While the CUI is engaged to carry out a wide range of spatial analysis work, our core areas of expertise are:

• land value uplift and capture analysis
• cultural mapping and spatial database design
• community energy intensity/natural resource mapping

Spatial information is usually delivered in the form of 2D and 3D maps that show the interaction between many variables -- these types of representations are very helpful for delivering a great amount on information in a compressed and easy to understand format. The target audience for our final maps is often broad, ranging from CEOs, to government officials, to engineers, and to business and community stakeholders.

Products and Services

Spatial Data Modelling

By adding a "spatial lens", the Canadian Urban Institute frequently helps both the public and private sectors to enhance their decision making capacities.

Data modelling reffers a process of derriving new information from exisitng data.The modelling process typically involves the use of complex statistical methods and advance spatial analysis tools and scripts.  The Institute has developed specialized approaches for applying GIS to modelling energy intensity, greenhouse gas emmissions, infrastructure strategies and demographic trends.

2D and 3D Visualization

A key element in GIS is communicating complex concepts and presenting findings from spatial data analysis in a compelling way. Two dimensional maps offer clarity in cases where many data layers are presented at once, while three-dimensional maps help the viewer to see trends from an entirely new perspective.

The CUI's GIS and spatial analysis team can help your organization find new ways to present its data or improve its existing visualizations.

The Spatial Analysis and Data Practice is part of the Institute's Urban Solutions Branch.