Osceola.org Feature Spotlight

With the advent of online mapping services like Google Maps, the world discovered whole new ways of associating web pages to real world location.  From the beginning, Osceola.org used interactive maps to help users find directions to a building or campus.  However, when we really brainstormed all the ways we could use location information to enhance Osceola.org, we were limited by our previous Content Management System CMS as well as .

Now, with the release of the Osceola CMS, we were able to start integrating all of our ideas for location data right into the foundation of the CMS.  For starters, every page on our website can now accept a geographical coordinate, address, and other location information.  For instance, a news story about a new cooling center for senior citizens will now also include a mini-map on the top left and a link to get directions.

In addition, this allows us to do some pretty cool stuff like showing other news that’s happening nearby.  If you look on that same news story, below the mini-map, you’ll see a few news stories and events happening within 5 miles of the cooling center opening.

We’ve also been able to create enhanced maps that include information from some of the in house Geographical Information Systems GIS.  One great example of this is the Commission District Map.  In the past, in order to show the borders of the commission districts, we were forced to use a static image.  Now, with the help of our GIS department, we are able to show these borders in the context of an interactive map.  Another great example of these enhanced maps is the DCI / DRI Maps and Documents.  Zoom in further and you can see the borders and really understand where each DRI is in relation to Osceola County.

Even with the great location based enhancements to the websites that have just been released, we are even more excited at the things coming down the pipe.  Within the year, we plan to get closer the full potential of our existing Virtual Citizen program by allowing you to enter in the address of your home, business, or other point of interest and be able to find information related to where you are in the county.  Imagine getting emailed weeks ahead of a planned road closure in your area.  Have newsletters customized to your location and sent to your email inbox.  Receive notifications about the nearest poling location and ballot information before the next election.  Or even getting quick access to the property appraiser’s tax records on your home.  We hope to make all of this possible in the near future.

All of this is possible with the new enhancements to location found within the foundation of the new Osceola CMS.  As always, we welcome your feedback and hope to hear about what ideas you have for making our website better and easier to use.  Take a moment to let us know what you think by filling out the Osceola County Web Team contact form.