By Shahabuddin Amerudin
GIS (Geographic Information System) software has become increasingly important in recent years as organizations have realized the benefits of using location-based data to make better decisions. As a result, the GIS software market has become highly competitive, with a range of vendors vying for market share. In order to survive and thrive in this market, GIS software vendors must adopt a range of strategies that enable them to innovate, provide excellent customer service, and compete effectively with other vendors.
Innovation is a critical factor in the success of GIS software vendors. As technology continues to evolve, vendors must keep up with these changes by introducing new features and capabilities. For example, Esri, one of the leading GIS software vendors, regularly introduces new tools and functionalities to its ArcGIS platform, such as the ability to use machine learning to classify land use and land cover (Esri, n.d.). By keeping up with technological advances, vendors can remain relevant and competitive in the market.
Another important factor is customer focus. GIS software vendors that listen to their customers, understand their needs and requirements, and provide tailored solutions tend to be more successful. For example, Mapbox, a provider of mapping and location-based services, has a customer-focused approach that involves working closely with its customers to understand their unique requirements and develop solutions that meet those needs (Mapbox, n.d.).
Partnering with other vendors is also a key strategy for GIS software vendors. By collaborating with other technology vendors, GIS software vendors can provide integrated solutions that meet the needs of specific industries or applications. For example, Pitney Bowes, a provider of location intelligence and customer engagement solutions, has partnered with Microsoft to integrate its software with Microsoft Dynamics CRM (Pitney Bowes, 2019).
Pricing strategies are another important consideration for GIS software vendors. Vendors that offer flexible pricing models that meet the needs of different types of customers tend to be more successful. For example, Carto, a provider of location intelligence software, offers a range of pricing options, including pay-as-you-go, annual, and enterprise plans, to meet the needs of different types of customers (Carto, n.d.).
Effective training and support are also critical factors in the success of GIS software vendors. By providing customers with the tools and resources they need to adopt and use their products effectively, vendors can increase customer satisfaction and retention. For example, MapInfo, a provider of GIS software, offers a range of training courses and resources to help its customers learn how to use its products effectively (MapInfo, n.d.).
Marketing and brand awareness are also important considerations for GIS software vendors. By investing in advertising, participating in industry events, and developing thought leadership content, vendors can reach potential customers and build brand awareness. For example, Geospatial Corporation, a provider of underground infrastructure mapping services, has developed a thought leadership program that includes webinars, whitepapers, and case studies to educate its customers and build its brand (Geospatial Corporation, n.d.).
Finally, data security and privacy are critical considerations for GIS software vendors. Vendors must ensure the security and privacy of customer data in order to maintain trust and credibility. This involves implementing effective security measures, complying with data privacy regulations, and providing transparent policies and procedures. For example, Hexagon, a provider of location intelligence solutions, has implemented a range of security measures to protect its customers’ data, including encryption and access controls (Hexagon, n.d.).
In conclusion, GIS software vendors must adopt a range of strategies to remain competitive and thrive in the market. These strategies include innovation, customer focus, partnering with other vendors, flexible pricing strategies, effective training and support, marketing and brand awareness, and data security and privacy. By adopting these strategies, vendors can remain relevant and competitive in the market, but must also be prepared to adapt to changes in technology and customer needs. As the GIS software market continues to evolve, vendors that are able to adapt and innovate will be best positioned for success.
References
Esri. (n.d.). ArcGIS Platform. Retrieved April 11, 2023, from https://www.esri.com/en-us/arcgis/products/arcgis-platform/overview
Mapbox. (n.d.). Why Customer-Centricity is Critical to Mapbox’s Success. Retrieved April 11, 2023, from https://www.mapbox.com/blog/customer-centricity-mapbox-success/
Pitney Bowes. (2019, November 4). Pitney Bowes Partners with Microsoft to Deliver the Next Generation of Customer Experience. Retrieved April 11, 2023, from https://www.pitneybowes.com/us/newsroom/press-releases/pitney-bowes-partners-with-microsoft-to-deliver-the-next-generat.html
Carto. (n.d.). Pricing Plans. Retrieved April 11, 2023, from https://carto.com/pricing/
MapInfo. (n.d.). Training. Retrieved April 11, 2023, from https://www.pitneybowes.com/us/location-intelligence/gis-software/mapinfo-professional/training.html
Geospatial Corporation. (n.d.). Thought Leadership. Retrieved April 11, 2023, from https://geospatialcorporation.com/thought-leadership/
Hexagon. (n.d.). Security. Retrieved April 11, 2023, from https://www.hexagongeospatial.com/products/power-portfolio/security
Suggestion for Citation: Amerudin, S. (2023). Remaining Competitive in the GIS Software Market: Strategies for Success. [Online] Available at: https://people.utm.my/shahabuddin/?p=6334 (Accessed: 11 April 2023).
