Mapping The Future - The Transformative Power of AI in the Geospatial Industry - By Graig Schwabe

The presentation explores the transformative impact of artificial intelligence—particularly neural networks and machine learning—on the geospatial industry. It traces the evolution from early AI models to today’s advanced large language models and AI agents, highlighting their ability to bridge the complexity gap in spatial data analysis. Using case studies from GeoScope’s work across South Africa and other African countries, we demonstrate how AI enables high-resolution geodemographic segmentation, MSME mapping, LSM estimation, and spatial epidemiology. The presentation emphasizes AI’s growing role in democratizing geospatial intelligence, supporting smarter infrastructure planning, economic inclusion, public health, and environmental sustainability.