Just as you’re waiting for the application of online mapping to one social problem (say crime), along come two variations on the theme.
Firstly terrorism – Janes Defence new (subscription only) Terrorism and Insurgency Centre Events Map is now live. Its a real-time source that any journalist working in worldwide current affairs would most certainly benefit from having access to (if the demo is anything to go by, at any rate).
Elsewhere, Defra now offer noise mapping for certain cities and conurbations around the country. These maps are not in real-time (so will be of no use regarding one-off events), but instead incorporate data which has been averaged out over the course of a year.
This source could certainly be useful for regional journalists eking out stories in what is a fairly popular area of interest to local audiences.
