GEO:Code Event

About the Program

Category: Information Technology (Best in Category)

Year: 2015

Recognizing the value of open data, in February 2014, the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to support making Hennepin County produced public geographic information systems (GIS) data more freely and openly available without charge or licensure to the public. As a result, the Hennepin County GIS Office launched its first GIS open data website featuring nine frequently requested base datasets. By the end of 2014, the site was hosting nearly fifty datasets covering a variety of topics. In February 2015, Hennepin County hosted its first ever open data event, Geo:Code, a two day code-a-thon, to create new technology applications in the public interest using Hennepin County Open GIS data sources. The event attracted more than 70 Geographic Information Systems (GIS) professionals and enthusiasts, technology developers and Hennepin County community members. During the code-a-thon, eight teams worked together to devise solutions to improve county services, give residents greater access to government data, and make a difference in our communities.