The Regional Data Laboratory
The Regional Data Laboratory (RDL) is a dedicated unit specialising in the development and application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and is capable of developing a range of datasets, databases and GIS systems for use by clients.
Recent work by the Regional Data Laboratory has produced high quality spatial analyses of the physical activity behaviours of inner city populations (including ‘network analysis’ of access to green space, shops and services); air quality indices; spatial incidence and associated risk from flood hazards; impacts of legislative change on risks associated with hazardous industries; monitoring environmental change associated with the M6 toll road; and call-out patterns for ambulance services.
IESR (through the RDL) is interested in seeking partners to explore Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) which utilise GIS technology.
Client Services and Expertise
The Regional Data Laboratory offers a wide range of services to clients. These include:
- Applied GIS research and analysis (housing, green space, regeneration, environmental justice, population and risk, built environment and health).
- Knowledge of Ordnance Survey mapping products and key socio-economic, environment and land use datasets, including the census and Indices of Multiple Deprivation.
- Mapping Services.
- Geocoding Services - spatially referencing postcode data.
- Production of bespoke GIS tools and datasets.
- GIS Training - tailored to the user’s needs.
Clients
Some of RDL's past clients include: The Environment Agency, Health and Safety Executive, Medical Research Council, Department of Communities and Local Government, Scottish Executive, Midland Expressway, Staffordshire County Council, Advantage West Midlands, and the North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce.
Facilities
- Air conditioned computer laboratory
- High specification computer hardware
- Large Screen Projection Facility
- Large Format Colour Printer (Plotter)
- A3 colour scanner / laser printer
- GPS equipment
- Environmental monitoring kit
- Ruggedised field computers
- PDAs with Mobile GIS
Staff
Projects
Examples of projects carried out by RDL:
GIS systems for the Green Arc Partnership
National Population Database 1 and 2