With the commoditization of GPS chips, location analytics, geospatial analysis and location intelligence have become desired features in business intelligence solutions. Everyone and everything that is mobile can be tracked. Location data is easier than ever to capture and store: including a map on a dashboard or in a workspace report is a great way to offer it up for analysis by business users. Maps add visual interest and present data in a familiar, easy to interpret format, as everyone knows how to read a map. Maps are not limited to geographic boundaries such as city, province or country: any kind of data identified by a location be it on a world map or the interior of an airplane can be rendered. Maps are very compelling during demos as they help craft a relatable story that unveils the value of data and business intelligence software.

With Cognos BI, there are three options for including a map in a report:

1. The built-in mapping feature: The advantage of this approach is that it is easy to implement. The disadvantage is that the functionality is limited and the maps that are included are dated and kind of ugly. However, for a quick proof of concept, they are fine. Better quality maps can be purchased from MapInfo and imported.

2. Google Maps: The Google Maps API provides a familiar interface and the features that most people expect to find on a map (zoom in – out, pan, street names, etc.). A demo can be set up for free but depending on the intended use, a paid version ( Google Maps API for Business ) might be required.  Using Google Maps in your reports also requires connecting to Google servers and agreeing to their terms of service, two conditions which might not be appropriate for an enterprise application.

3. A software plug-in: There are several but ESRI and Integeo are the leaders. This option adds cost and complexity, but provides advanced features for deploying location analytics and greater interactivity for business users.

• IBM Cognos 10 documentation for using maps inside Report Studio
• IBM DeveloperWorks Report Studio Workshop – Maps (written for Cognos 8 but it works the same way with Cognos 10)
• IBM Cognos Map Manager
• IBM DeveloperWorks Integrate Google Maps with Cognos 8 (again, written for Cognos 8 but it works the same way with Cognos 10)
• Sample JavaScript code from IBM for Google Maps integration
• Another example demonstrating the use of  the Google Maps API