Geocoding uses global imaging and mapping systems to pinpoint locations precisely.
Geocoding links addresses or positions to geographic coordinates that can be pinned to points on a map. You need a reference point, such as road centerlines, and conversion software. Free geocoding programs online convert addresses to latitude and longitude geocodes.
Civil Uses
Local governments, emergency management and utility companies use geocoding to plot homes and utility locations. Police departments plot crimes so they can focus on specific areas. Utility companies use it to plot the location of power poles, underground gas lines and customers. Fire departments can instantly plot their route to a fire, which is especially useful in rural areas.
Photos
Geocoding or geotagging pinpoints the photographer's position rather than that of the object photographed. This is useful for obtaining 360-degree images of an object. Some cameras have built-in software to geotag photos as you take them.
Missing Persons
When a person vanishes, a missing-persons organization may use a telephony system that calls a specific area, geocoded with addresses and telephone numbers, to ask residents in the target area to be on the lookout for the missing person.
Weather Notifications
Emergency management agencies use geocoding to send telephonic notifications when severe weather or other natural disaster situation threatens specific areas.
Healthcare Studies
Geocoding allows researchers to home in on specific geographic areas and perform studies to help determine the availability and quality of health care in those areas.
Geocaching
Geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunting game in which organizers bury small treasures or caches and publish the coordinates online so geocachers can find them.
Tags: specific areas