CalGIS 2025

DuckDB is an exciting new database system that brings the power and simplicity of spatial SQL into your python scripts.  It's fast and efficient with big data, imports a large variety of spatial file formats, and runs on your laptop -- no server or cloud required!  In this interactive workshop, we'll go over the basics of getting started with DuckDB, importing data, running spatial queries on your tables, and viewing outputs with the QDuckDB plugin for QGIS.   This is a great opportunity to get exposure to spatial SQL syntax and query patterns if you've always wondered, but never tried.  SQL is trending as the standard language for accessing data on many cloud geospatial platforms, so DuckDB is the perfect low-hanging fruit on which to practice your SQL skills without having to pay for cloud access.

Participants should provide their own laptops with QGIS and VSCode installed.  Familiarity with python and creating python environments is strongly advised.

In today's data-driven world, organizations need robust systems to manage, analyze, and share information effectively. Esri's comprehensive system offers a powerful solution by integrating three key components: a System of Record, a System of Insight, and a System of Engagement.

System of Record: Esri's ArcGIS platform serves as a reliable System of Record, enabling organizations to collect, manage, and store authoritative geospatial data. This foundational layer ensures data accuracy and consistency, providing a single source of truth for all spatial information.

System of Insight: Beyond just storing data, Esri's platform transforms it into actionable insights. The System of Insight leverages advanced analytics, machine learning, and real-time data processing to uncover patterns, trends, and relationships within the data.

System of Engagement: Esri's System of Engagement empowers organizations to share and collaborate on geospatial data across departments and with external stakeholders. This system fosters a collaborative environment where data and insights are accessible to everyone, enhancing communication and participation

Esri's comprehensive system is a holistic approach to managing and utilizing geospatial data. This integration not only enhances data accuracy and insight generation but also promotes collaboration and engagement, driving better outcomes for organizations and communities alike.