Utilizing Open Source Software for Data Processing and Visualization

Erin Wardell, AICPParsons Brinckerhoff

Prepared for the 2009 TRB National Transportation Planning Applications Conference

Data challenges

Model runs produce huge amounts of data Agencies need ways to quickly process and

visualize model output Budget restrictions limit software agencies

can purchase Data summaries and visuals should be

consistent across many alternatives Complicated data processing done by hand

may lead to mistakes

Software reviewed

Sqlite R Microsoft Excel and Access SAS ESRI ArcGIS Commercial Transportation Software Higher Programming Languages

Oregon Statewide Model Data processing heavy lifting done by sqlite Visuals created by R

Oregon Statewide Model

Oregon Statewide Model

Oregon Statewide Model

Columbia River Crossing DEIS

Conclusions

Open source software can process data quickly and create very high quality visuals

Saves money Learning curve for staff Flexible, can be applied to many projects Utilizing scripts for data processing ensures

consistency and can minimize mistakes