Theory Meets Practice in GIS: Integration of Toponyms Mobile data Collection in PostgreSQL Database (A mobile application for toponyms of Kenya, Django REST API open source approach)

Abstract

Data integration involves getting data from different sources and viewing it on a platform. Data synchronization involves connecting the data entry and archiving in PostgreSQL database either in a server or mobile device in a two way mechanism. The aim of this paper is to show how the toponyms (place names) data can be synched in a local PostgreSQL database as mobile data collection exercise progresses using Django REST framework, Python libraries and other software. A toponyms project was created containing repositories builds on Bit Bucket cloud and endpoint generated for the toponyms file. A web client was then created to expose the endpoint that receives data from the android application hence connecting the mobile app. The mobile app also has OSM base map and data is collected and archived in real time as it is collected, in a PostgreSQL/PostGIS database backend. The process involves maintaining different file formats on each platform without the users notice. The online data back up by the devise enables secure back-up due to syncing with hosting server which renders the data both on an online cloud and a local computer storage. Similarly the OSM data can either be imported using QGIS quick map services plugin or be manually built and synched in a local disk of a computer. The mobile data collected, OpenStreetMap and validated data may then be running side by side or be displayed as an overlay. The endpoint, app and PostgreSQL communicate through the model. Data is sent through the endpoint which triggers data processing and storage into PostgreSQL throughout as long as there is internet connection. The integration eliminates data entry, minimizes editing and provides up to date fieldwork data. The mobile APK generates data for personal use and also for mapping organization(s) or agents of governments handling geographical names (after customization). Also, the app can be used to update maps data, after validation, without actual fieldwork; hence cutting cost since all software and tools used are all open source including free data collection using VGI. Further probes and analysis needs to be done on the two sources of VGI data to determine their characteristics