Introduction
Locatr transforms fieldwork with a user-friendly mobile app for accurately locating mile markers, identifying road attributes, and determining ownership and maintenance responsibilities. From small cities to large states and territories, Locatr enhances data quality and location accuracy, providing real-time data for efficient field operations and informed decision-making.
Origins
In 2014, John MacAdam with MacAdam Consulting created an impactful location finder app for a large Department of Transportation. Initially designed to streamline location-based tasks and data collection, the app helped maintenance staff and first responders accurately communicate their location, reduced confusion, and enhanced data quality. It provided accurate mile marker locations on the entire state system, including those without route markers.
Redesign and Enhancement
Polygon Solutions enhanced this original idea to incorporate temporal capabilities, allowing users to step back to previous years’ road inventory data. This update ensured that the minimalistic design was preserved, maintaining a user-friendly interface while significantly expanding its utility. The app currently has over 10,000 downloads and receives up to 300,000 uses per month.
Technological Advancements
In collaboration with Polygon Solutions, Vallr Solutions developed Locatr using open-source technology. This new version improved functionality and made the app more accessible to a wider audience. Valuable insights and ideas were also exchanged with Bennett Murphy from NexusLRS during this phase, further enhancing the app’s capabilities. Locatr has successfully integrated and tested the HPMS road inventory for every state, proving its nationwide effectiveness.
Future Plans
Vallr is innovating again with the Xplor software suite. This new suite will feature robust GIS and collaboration tools, aiming to serve multiple industries, including utilities, water, and transportation. Xplor will offer advanced solutions to expand the capabilities of field teams and improve operational efficiency.
Conclusion
Locatr’s development highlights the importance of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement giving road crews, maintenance teams, emergency responders, police, and highway patrol units instant access to your organization’s vital location data precisely when they need it!
