Use of Geodata for Operational Study of Population

Abstract

Тhe purpose of the article is to develop a methodology for compiling population density and mobility maps based on the data (geographic data) obtained from mobile operators in Irkutsk. Before its development, the Russian and world experience in compiling maps based on mobile phones data was analysed. Materials and methods. To achieve the goal, the author uses the data received from mobile operators (CDR), with the help of which it was possible to identify information about location of the device at each moment in time. Based on the geographical location of base stations, it is possible to analyze the density of users at a particular time and place. Based on the results of spatial data analysis, we obtained the signal density at a certain time interval. Results and discussion. The results obtained now clearly demonstrate that geographic data from user devices and geographic information systems represent a very effective symbiosis of technologies for solving geographic problems. Such studies make it possible to assess the general mobility of the population for a particular region. Data on the location of a mobile phone can really reveal the spatio-temporal distribution of urban residents at macro- and mesolevels in the administrative districts of the city. Conclusion. Based on official sources of information (statistical compilations and population censuses), it is impossible to quickly consider the movement of the population at the local level. However, for all its indisputable advantages, geodata are unlikely to replace traditional methods of studying human mobility in the near future. Only a rational combination of traditional and new methods can cause a qualitative change in the accuracy and efficiency of population distribution.