Use your years of experience to envision, design, and develop the next generation of ArcGIS products. Join ESRI, where your individual contributions will have an impact on new software functionality. Apply now or search other opportunities.
New Open Source Software to help in Tracking epidemics like Malaria, Chikungunya and Dengue
Written by glenn
Monday, 08 October 2007
A new software developed by a team of young software professionals is all about to revolutionize the way information is collected and processed in tracking epidemics like Malaria, Chikungunya, Dengue.
The software, developed by Tech-Startup Zyxware Technologies, based out of Trivandrum, India, is being released as Free Software under the GNU General Public License (GPL) on 5th October 2007. Although the software was developed for the State of Kerala, India, the GNU GPL will allow it to be downloaded and used for free by any other government in the world.
The software is web based and allows Hospitals to report cases of diseases as soon as they are registered at the hospital. The software seamlessly integrates with the existing manual process by allowing hospitals that does not have any web access to send paper based reports to data entry operators who can enter them into the system or send soft copies of the reports that can be imported automatically. The system allows secure login with role based privileges for different roles like Government Medical Official, Hospital Staff, Data Access Operators and System Administrator.
The GIS interface uses Google maps to present the data on a real time basis on a map of the state. Cases of diseases are represented by markers on the map and easy visual analysis of the pattern and extent of spread of diseases is possible. The GIS and reporting interface processes the cases registered and presents reports that can be used by the Health Department to monitor the situation on a real time basis and take precautionary measures if required. Such a system will help in preventing occurrences of disease outbreaks of the scale experienced by the State of Kerala (in India) in the last couple of years.
It is for the first time that such a software is being developed and released as Free Software in India. Two main objectives in releasing the software as Free and Open Source Software are a) To promote the fact that it is possible to develop state of the art software at very low costs and a developing country like India does not have to languish behind other IT leaders in any areas – similar software being sold in developed countries costs in the range of US$ 50,000 - and, b) To inspire youngsters to take bold steps in trying out their ideas and following their dreams instead of orthodox careers.
Zyxware Technologies, was started by Anoop John, who traded his job in the US for an opportunity to come back and serve India. The enterprise was started, with a vision to "Be the change we wish to see in the world" as envisioned by Mahatma Gandhi. The primary focus of the firm is to create applications that can significantly enhance the quality of life in the world by innovatively using technology.
The software is available for free download at the company's website – www.zyxware.com.
GISuser Spotlight... Twitter clients for the Google G1 and Android mobile smart phones - I’m currently using the G1 as my main/only mobile device - it’s a perfect time for such a challenge because I’m also traveling and away from the office so there are always hiccups and glitches that can occur under such circumstances - a perfect time for a test!
The 2009 NAVTEQ LBS Challenge a look at the semi finalists, the Winning apps, and the LBSzone picks! At the CTIA Wireless event in Las Vegas, NAVTEQ held the award ceremonies for their 6th LBS Challenge, a competition designed to stimulate interest in location services and encourage developers to create innovative location-aware applications. We look at the state of LBS, the TOP apps, the winners, and our own top picks!
Economic Stimulus Project areas that may create GIS/Geo Tech Opportunities - Like many of you, we haven't really had time to go through the entire 1,071 page Detailed List of Spending - you can view and download the entire document at ProRepublica. We did take a little time, however, to go through this fine summary.
ESRI Business GIS Summit, July 12-15, 2009 · San Diego, CA - This combination provides an unprecedented opportunity to learn how GIS addresses today's business challenges. If you're interested in business GIS as a manager, executive, or user, there's no better event to attend.vealed.
ESRI International User Conference, July 13-17, 2009 · San Diego, CA - ESRI customers across the globe are invited to register to attend the world's largest gathering of GIS professionals.
Webinar: Google Earth For Your Government Agency - Join Google and DLT an informative webinar on Tuesday, June 30th from 2-3 ET to learn more about how the Google Earth Enterprise solution is helping government agencies to collaborate, and take faster, more informed action.
Is your LizardTech Lizard star material? SHOW US and you could win a new GPS system. Simply snap a creative photo of your favorite, authentic LizardTech Collectable Lizard and see how it measures up. Photos will be featured on the official LizardTech Flickr page and voted on by viewers everywhere. Submit yours today and win!
See more 
