Abstract:
In this work a comprehensive geocomputing solution for the Gatanga Water Trust (GWT) has been developed to
assist it in managing its water supply and distribution. The solution comprises two subcomponents: a mapping
component and a billing component which are tightly coupled together. The proposed system uses stable open
source products for the mapping component and the database. At present the GWT uses outdated maps and
sketches for design and installation of a new water supply infrastructure. A billing system is in place which is
used to manage client accounts, record meter readings, prepare bills and record payments made. This presents
a somewhat disjointed approach to management of the water supply and its attendant infrastructure. The
database that stores the account information is very different (softcopy) from that storing the spatial information
(hardcopy/paper based).
In the proposed solution, a single database is used, centralized or distributed. The mapping component provides
an interface through which preliminary design of new and planned infrastructure can be done. After installation
of such infrastructure and their subsequent mapping, these are reflected in the database and the information
becomes available as soon as it is stored. The billing component uses the same database to manage account
information. Since the information is managed in one system, there is a streamlined and orderly flow from data
collection to the final products from the system.
The proposed solution leverages advancement in technology by providing two approaches A desktop application
for users within the Trust's intranet and a web mapping application for users utilizing the wider internet.
