Originally for Telecoms (but applicable to many other verticals too) What software systems (both off-the-shelf & in-house) is your GIS stack comprised of, which is used to plan and build (and then manage) an optic fiber network?  

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Chief Information Security Officer in Healthcare and Biotech2 years ago

In the field of planning, building, and managing an optic fiber network, a Geographic Information System (GIS) stack plays a crucial role in capturing, analyzing, and visualizing geospatial data. The specific software systems comprising a GIS stack can vary depending on the requirements and preferences of the organization. Here are some commonly used software systems in a typical GIS stack for optic fiber network management:

GIS Software:

Esri ArcGIS: Esri's ArcGIS platform is a widely used GIS software that provides comprehensive tools for mapping, spatial analysis, and data management.
QGIS: QGIS is an open-source GIS software that offers similar functionalities to ArcGIS and provides a cost-effective alternative.
Bentley MicroStation: MicroStation is a CAD and GIS software used for designing and modeling infrastructure, including optic fiber networks.

Network Planning and Design:

Autodesk AutoCAD: AutoCAD is a popular software for 2D and 3D design, including network planning and layout design.
Bentley Fiber: Bentley Fiber is a specialized software for optic fiber network design and engineering, offering features like network layout planning, cable routing, and documentation.

Spatial Database Management:

Oracle Spatial: Oracle Spatial is a spatial database management system that allows the storage, indexing, and querying of geospatial data with high performance and scalability.
PostGIS: PostGIS is an open-source spatial database extension for PostgreSQL, providing geospatial capabilities and enabling spatial data analysis and management.

Network Inventory and Management:

Smallworld: Smallworld is a network inventory management system specifically designed for telecommunications, including optic fiber networks. It allows for tracking network assets, managing connectivity, and facilitating network planning and maintenance.
GEONIS: GEONIS is an integrated solution for network asset management, supporting GIS functionalities and providing tools for data capture, maintenance, and reporting.

Documentation and Project Management:

Microsoft Office Suite: Tools like Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint are commonly used for documentation, project planning, and reporting related to optic fiber network projects.
Project Management Software: Project management tools such as Microsoft Project, JIRA, or Trello can be utilized to manage tasks, track progress, and collaborate on network deployment projects.

Data Analysis and Visualization:

Tableau: Tableau is a data visualization tool that can be integrated with GIS data to create interactive and insightful visualizations of network performance, coverage, and other relevant metrics.
Python Libraries: Python libraries like pandas, NumPy, and Matplotlib provide data analysis and visualization capabilities that can be integrated with GIS data to perform advanced analytics.

It's important to note that the choice of software systems may vary depending on the organization's specific requirements, budget, and existing IT infrastructure. Some organizations may opt for a combination of off-the-shelf and in-house developed software to meet their unique needs.

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