Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/62129
users to make live edits. The SWEEP application taps into a mobile SQL database for storing business data, while the LED project uses stored GIS feature classes. For data synchronization, the Sweep App uses SQL replication via FTP, in contrast to the LED application, which uses ArcGIS Mobile with versioning. Although both projects use the Intermec CN3 for computing, completely different peripheral devices are used. Lessons Learned During implementation of these projects, the following important lessons were learned: In SQL Server replica- tion, it's important have complete control of all data tables being synchronized among mobile devices and the master database. Initially, field personnel were synching application error tables to all devices and among all devices, unnoticed. At one point, the accu- mulation of error records in all these tables slowed the data synch process to a crawl. Software may behave differently on separate systems. Processes that may have executed flawlessly in a consultant's operating environment won't necessarily perform the same in your environment. Every stage of a project, from design to testing to implementation, should incorporate feedback from the individuals who ultimately will be the primary users in the field. Attempting to devise an archive strategy after the project is under- way can be problematic. Be sure to develop a feasible archive method during the project-planning phase, and reserve ample disk space for stored records. A mobile system with dozens of field users will require constant support. Bolster your staff to support the implementation phase, and reserve at least one full-time dedicated staff member for ongoing project maintenance. Support efforts may be scaled back over time if an overall comfort level is reached with project operations. Because multiple mobile versions are synching at differ- ent times of the day through a remote network, expect a time delay for records that post to the SDE database as well as what's viewable in the SQL database. This suggestion may be elementary, but just like a desktop computer or printer, when a mobile device behaves strangely, the first recourse should be to restart the device, clearing the memory cache and re-initializing the operating system. Mobility/GPS Special Issue Mobile technology provides many advantages when integrating with GIS, including data standard- ization, GPS navigation, minimized paper use, and capture of photos and coordinate locations with real-time accuracy. Speed, accurate information and user-friendly interfaces are an everyday standard in today's mobile society. The city of Philadelphia's Streets Department is using this technology as an effective modernization strategy to accomplish departmental objectives in the field, and they're only looking forward from here. Andy Mehos is GIS manager, Streets Department of Philadelphia; e-mail: andy.mehos@phila.gov. Jim Ellis is a student as Drexel University; e-mail: je333@drexel.edu. APRIL 2O12 / WWW . GEOPLA CE . COM 21