Bell, P, Shelley, W, Smith, R S, and Tomas, R. 2014. Reusable tools for smartphone apps: innovative activities in the European geological sector. British Geological Survey, OR/14/073.
We wanted to learn whether utilising apps as a method of delivering spatial geoscience information had enabled the geological surveys of Europe to reach a wider audience than has thus far been achieved by its traditional methods of information delivery (including from experts to non-professionals). 60% of those developing apps replied that they felt that to be the case and 45% also felt that apps had helped them reach outside of the geology community to introduce their data to a wider range of potential users from other domains. Such results are of interest to ARE3NA and surveys in other sectors could explore how such geology data is consumed and potentially reprocessed. Figure 18 shows who app developers feel are using their apps and Figure 19 demonstrates the activities for which they are using it. It demonstrates a clear use by professional geologists, as one would expect. There is strong use in teaching and by interested amateurs such as tourists and life-long learners, alongside the general public. There is also recognition of professional use of the apps and their data within other sectors such as engineers, agricultural specialists and decision makers. Whilst perhaps circumstantial, this does provide an indication that the apps are expanding the reach of the work of the geological surveys.
Figure 18 Range of users utilising apps created by European Geological Surveys.Figure 19 Activities for which users are using apps.
