Mapping India the right way: Global positioning system

Radio taxi operators are not alone in the use of geospatial technology. Today, we use maps every day on our mobile phones, laptops and tablets to find a variety of information, whether it’s a nearby hospital or a good cup of coffee. Businesses rely on geospatial services (electronic maps as well as satellite imagery) to create new efficiencies in their core operations, find ways to better target their customers, create leaner operations, and make smarter strategic decisions. Yet have you ever stopped to think about the industry behind the maps we use every day, the contributions it makes to our economy, and the benefits it provides to both consumers and businesses?

Put simply, geospatial technology is driving economic growth and job opportunities in India. This is evidenced by a Boston Consulting Group report, commissioned by Google. The report reveals that the Indian geospatial services industry generated $3 billion in revenue in 2011 alone while accounting for approximately 1,35,000 jobs. The industry is composed of geo-data providers, location-enabled device manufacturers, geo-app developers, and a growing network of geospatial experts and educators.

According to the BCG report, geospatial services help Indian businesses drive $40-45 billion in revenue, save $70-75 billion in costs and affect 8-9 million

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