http://www.directionsmag.com/ Upcoming GIS Events and Conferences 2009-06-23 http://lbs360.directionsmag.com/articles/index.php?article_id=3198 The attributes of physical objects in the real world are commonly noted on paper maps or in electronic files, but these are frequently of limited use in the field. Why do we not simply encode key information onto the actual objects, themselves? For example, in Akron, Ohio the domes of fire hydrants are color-coded to denote their water pressure. Though we need to put all this information into databases, can we not also put it right exactly where it's needed? 2009-06-16 http://lbs360.directionsmag.com/articles/index.php?article_id=3190 In the much-hyped, Madison Avenue world of mobile location-based advertising, the Holy Grail seems within the grasp of retailers looking for that one-to-one marketing nirvana oft cited in the early nineties. But in its current model, it’s not working the way it should or can. Today's business model uses "push" advertising to mobile devices. But what if the model should be "pull," thus allowing consumers to determine when, where and how they should receive ads? Editor in Chief Joe Francica explores this model and more. ... 2009-06-12 http://lbs360.directionsmag.com/articles/index.php?article_id=3185 A recent Government Accounting Office (GAO) report on the future of the GPS constellation stated: "It is uncertain whether the Air Force will be able to acquire new satellites in time to maintain current GPS service without interruption. If not, some military operations and some civilian users could be adversely affected. In recent years, the Air Force has struggled to successfully build GPS satellites within cost and schedule goals." In this editorial, SiRF Technology founder Kanwar Chadha offers a more rationale assessment of the situation.