GPX File Uploading

[JonathanRodriguez]

We ran a two day search scenario this weekend, and I attempted to refine our usage of MapSAR.  I ran across several problems (human error more than anything) which I am working on.  However, there was one concept which was presented to me which is a departure from the way I have done things for years in ArcMap.  When it comes to downloading GPSrs, storing the data, and latter displaying it, I have always used DNR GPS.  This has always been presented to me as the standard in my experience with SAR and FIRE Incident Mapping (at least for the agencies I have communicated with).  A self proclaimed "Computer Hacker" on the Team thinks it simpler to just use Windows File Explorer to copy the GPX file out of the GPSr (Garmin E-Trex Units, in our case), past it into the MapSAR GPS File, and rename it using our naming convention (date_operationalperiod_teamname_membername_track).  It does work, yet I am imagining a number of non-ideal conditions under which I would need DNR GPS.  Can anyone provide sound reasons why this "Hackers" method would not work for you?

[NicolasdeBreyne]

We have been evaluating and will be moving onto MapSAR for our Search and Rescue Unit in the next few months. At this point we haven't decided who will be running the MapSAR, currently all our search managers are trained on the digital mapping software we are using, we may look at creating a GIS position which would be filled by more skilled operators. Technical abilities / knowledge with the current search managers varies althought none are GIS technicians and for the most part are average computer users running email, and word processors (some cant cut and paste in word). My experience with ArcGIS / MapSAR is very limited to the last 6 months and hands on to the last few weeks. Depending on the caliber of your map operators I would side with your "hacker". In our case our search managers have 4 training days a year, for our previous mapping software I gave them a 4 day hands on software training, I figure we will do a 4 days training with MapSAR as well. Introducing another software such as DNR GPS is an extra step that the folks have to use and the more stuff in the pot the more chances something will be forgotten. I am currently importing GPX files in the fashion your "hacker" describes and right now unless I hear of  reasons why I would want to incorporate DNR GPS i intend to keep things simple and import them using windows. It works very well, is very simple. If we discover that for a particular search we need the DNR GPS i would have our GIS tech come in an do it. Every team member is issued a GPS and we download every track and plot them all on the map, adding DNR GPS is just one more step to the confusion. If your GIS operators are very skilled the extra steps of DNR may be worthwile, if they are like my folks, you may be the only one that will use all the features and risk complicating the process for little value.

Again based on a benefit analysis if the advantages of DNR GPS outway they disadvantages of having another software then We would reconsider its use.

Nic
SAR specialist
Ottawa Ont