Another brilliant day at the Esri Annual Conference 2025 – this year’s theme “Uniting Our World” really resonated with us at the AGI, and deeply reflects our mission to “…nurture, create and support a thriving UK Geospatial Community…”.
AGI Directors Ben Blowers, Richard Flemmings, Samuel Tizzard, Simon Nigh and John Seabourn were all on-hand to discuss the position of the AGI to many attendees who dropped by and there was barely a quiet moment at the stand. It was great to catch up with so many familiar faces from across the geospatial community and meet new ones.
We managed to cram a lot in on the day – the opening plenary had a heartwarming contribution from Jack Dangermond stressing the challenges we face as a planet and how they can only be overcome if we all work together.
During the morning sessions, West Midlands Police revealed how they’re targeting knife crime using deeper hotspot analysis to better direct policing resources. CBRE, in collaboration with Esri UK, demonstrated how enterprise-wide insight is empowering employees across the board. Meanwhile, Esri UK took us through capturing data easily and efficiently on the go, streamlining mobile workflows for field data collection. Over in the collaborative stream, Bloxham School shared how they’re challenging future leaders to collect and analyse data, with a brilliant example of GIS in education. For those diving into automation, there were hands-on workshops exploring how to use ArcGIS Pro ModelBuilder and Python scripting to streamline workflows.
After lunch, the housing crisis took centre stage in a panel exploring the role of geography in tackling housing shortages. Our very own AGI Director, Samuel Tizzard, from The London Borough of Harrow walked through their use of a 3D digital twin to enhance public services and planning. Esri UK then guided users through mastering the management of their ArcGIS environments, offering tips on licensing and configuration. RSPB Cymru demonstrated how mobile GIS apps are being used to conserve precious peatland habitats. Meanwhile, an introduction to Express mode in ArcGIS Experience Builder made it easy to see how quick, no-code web apps are being built with ease. For those who missed it earlier, a repeat ModelBuilder session gave another chance to get to grips with workflow automation.
The final round of sessions explored diverse applications of GIS. Sport England and AtkinsRéalis presented a mapping toolkit developed to inform sport investment strategies across the UK. South Woodford Society demonstrated how digital mapping is being used to engage local residents in urban planning. Esri UK gave a practical session on carrying out web editing with confidence, while the Scottish Fisheries Coordination Centre showcased interactive dashboards for coordinating salmon conservation. The day wrapped up with repeat workshops on Python scripting and ArcGIS Experience Builder, reinforcing the value of low-code and code-driven solutions to enhance geospatial workflows.
The always-entertaining talk by John Nelson and Ken Friend contained a brilliant mix of humour, design, and GIS storytelling.
We also loved the “Insights” award featuring the seals at Horsey Beach – proof that maps can move people (and seals).
Huge thanks to the Esri UK team for putting together such a packed and inspiring day and big thanks to everyone that came and said hello to us at the AGI stand!