The Spatial Data Science Conference (SDSC) in New York is where the world of data science, advanced analytics, and geospatial expertise meet. In collaboration with Locala, we used the event to demonstrate how powerful, high-quality geospatial data drives effective campaigns using Echo's POI data.

SDSC revealed key trends that underline why geospatial data is essential for modern business. From generative AI applications to the criticality of data quality, we’re seeing evolving practices in how industries leverage geospatial intelligence for sharper insights and improved decisions. 

The following takeaways highlight not only the value of these trends but also why they matter and what they mean for organizations striving to leverage geospatial data. Here’s how businesses can benefit from these advancements and the future implications for data-driven strategy.

Gen AI and machine learning are revolutionizing geospatial analysis

As expected, artificial intelligence and machine learning took center stage at SDSC. Generative AI and machine learning are impacting spatial analysis – a specialist task traditionally requiring specialized know-how to conduct. Their ease of implementation is lowering the barrier of entry, democratizing geospatial insights, and making these insights accessible to non-specialists. For example, Snowflake has integrated GIS capabilities within its platform, using low-code/no-code tools to allow non-technical users to tap into complex spatial data. Other companies, such as CoreLogic, demonstrated how they used machine learning to create growth score models to forecast development trends, allowing real estate and investment professionals to identify high-growth regions more effectively. 

The takeaway: Gen-AI and machine learning are core to the future of geospatial data, technology, and insight. As these technologies evolve, their ability to unlock spatial insights for all users is transforming how businesses access and act on valuable location data.

Geospatial data is business-essential

Modern data solutions have enhanced decision-making and operational efficiency, but without geospatial insight, they miss key opportunities. David Buchanan from Comcast highlighted this challenge within telecommunications, where outdated, disconnected systems limit effective decision-making. Platforms that integrate diverse data sources and facilitate complex geospatial analysis at scale give telecom businesses the tools to overcome limitations. They’ll have a better understanding of customer behavior, optimize network performance, and enhance service delivery through predictive modeling and real-time insights. 

The takeaway: A data strategy that includes geospatial intelligence positions businesses for innovation and a competitive edge. Embracing this holistic approach ensures access to insights that enhance decision-making and customer experience.

Data quality is king and matters for decision-making

For geospatial data to be central to strategic decision-making and insight, ensuring a high data quality is vital. Poor data can lead to misinformed decisions, which can have serious consequences. In sectors like insurance, where accurate risk assessment is essential, high-quality geospatial data is irrefutable. Tokyo Marine Highland showcased how geospatial data, from historical flood records to real-time weather forecasts, enables insurers to take proactive steps in mitigating potential losses, offering more accurate risk assessments and better client communication. Minor floods can cost homeowners and insurers in the US up to $500 billion annually, illustrating the necessity for geospatial data to adhere to a quality standard that supports sectors like insurance.

The takeaway: Geospatial data’s value is in its accuracy and reliability. To support sectors like insurance effectively, it is vital for geospatial insights to be derived from high-quality data sources for making real-time decisions.

Make data easy to understand

The importance of high-quality data for extracting insights is one thing, but an empathetic approach to data representation is just as valuable. Geospatial data has the power to reveal patterns, trends, and insights, but only if it’s represented clearly.

An example of this is Kirk Goldsberry’s presentation on how cartography and spatial analytics transformed the NBA’s understanding of modern basketball strategy. He collected millions of data points and created a visual analysis ultimately showing that mid-range shots were less efficient than close-range and three-point shots. This analysis prompted a complete shift in gameplay for the entire NBA. By simplifying complex spatial patterns, Goldsberry showed that it’s not enough for data to be accurate—it must also be accessible and meaningful. Examples like this demonstrate geospatial data’s value when used effectively. It can shape strategies and decision making whether that’s on the court, or in business.   

‍The takeaway: Thoughtful data visualization democratizes data use, allowing a broader audience to engage with geospatial insights. By making data understandable, businesses empower users to make more informed decisions.

These SDSC takeaways align perfectly with Echo’s mission: Enable every organization to evolve faster by making the world easy to understand. To us, that means simplifying the complexities and enabling sharp insights through high quality, actionable data. 

The future of business lies in the ability to harness geospatial data and to make that data meaningful across industries. Whether for telecommunications, real estate, insurance, or any other industry, we’re here to empower your business with impactful location intelligence.