Plateforme OPenIG (Occitanie Pyrénées en Intelligence Géomatique)
About this good practice
OPenIG is a regional platform for managing and disseminating geographic data, created to meet the needs of public and private actors in Occitanie. The main challenge is the need to centralize, share, and enhance regional geographic data in order to improve decision-making and promote resource pooling between local authorities, government services, and private actors. This need is part of a context of digital transition and the growing role of spatial data infrastructures, where access to reliable and harmonized data is a strategic issue for land planning and adaptation to climate change.
The implementation relies on several levers: OPenIG uses open-source tools (GeoServer, OpenLayers, PostgreSQL/PostGIS) for its geographic data infrastructure (GDI). This GDI allows local authorities and regional actors to upload, consult, and exploit GIS data via interoperable web services (WMS, WFS, API). Training and support actions are also offered to ensure effective user adoption.
The main stakeholders involved are the Occitanie Region, local authorities, urban planning agencies, government services, and research organizations. The beneficiaries include territorial decision-makers, consulting firms, citizens, and businesses that need reliable geographic data for their projects.
Expert opinion
Resources needed
OPenIG is an association financed by membership fees and public subsidies. With 198 members at the end of 2024, it offers services, support and training. Its 11 employees manage the data infrastructure with an annual budget of 600,000 to 700,000 euros.
Evidence of success
OPenIG facilitates access to satellite data for projects such as Terra OccitanIA, which uses this data to create soil maps in Occitanie. The platform has also supported initiatives such as the CRIG 2024 event, where discussions highlighted the importance of satellite data in territorial management.
Potential for learning or transfer
This practice could be of interest to other regions, especially those facing similar territorial management challenges, such as climate change or sustainable urban planning. Its model of data centralization at the regional level and availability through interoperable web services allows for effective and accessible management of territories. The key success factors are collaboration between public and private stakeholders, interoperability of tools, and continuous training for users. Transfers can be made to other regions, such as those in Spain or Italy, working on projects related to environmental risk management or precision agriculture. However, obstacles may exist, particularly differences in funding and the diversity of data systems in each region. The transfer would be facilitated by the adoption of open-source solutions and targeted training for local actors.
Further information
Good practice owner
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