Watco: A Leader in Transportation Services
Founded in 1983 and headquartered in eastern Kansas, Watco has grown from a small business into a leading transportation and supply chain services provider. With operations across North America and Australia, Watco’s expansive network includes short-line railroads, terminals, ports, and railcar repair facilities. The company offers comprehensive solutions for transporting materials and commodities across diverse markets.
The Need for a GIS-Powered Solution
To elevate customer engagement and marketing efforts, Watco sought a geospatial web-based application that would allow customers to explore its service offerings via an interactive map. Key requirements included mobile compatibility, a centralized hub for customer resources, scalability for future upgrades, enhanced filtering tools, and a contact form for inquiries.
Partnering with GCS
Watco partnered with Esri partner GCS to create a cutting-edge geospatial solution using ArcGIS Online. The result: GeoConnect, an application designed to showcase Watco’s transportation and storage offerings. This application transforms traditional data into spatial features, allowing customers to visualize key services and locations in a dynamic, user-friendly interface.
Building GeoConnect
GeoConnect was developed using the React JavaScript library and the latest ArcGIS JavaScript API. It is integrated into Watco’s WordPress infrastructure, ensuring seamless operation and easy access for users. The application leverages an air-gapped system, ensuring secure data management and eliminating external network risks.
GeoConnect’s data is managed within Watco’s internal ArcGIS Portal, with selected datasets synced to the public-facing ArcGIS Online system. This synchronization ensures real-time data accuracy for customers while keeping Watco’s internal GIS data secure.
Modules Tailored to Customer Needs
GeoConnect consists of three key modules that meet Watco’s diverse customer demands:
- Railcar Storage Module: Launched in 2022, this module enables users to find storage facilities based on detailed criteria such as location, railcar capacity, proximity to Class I railroads, and hazmat suitability. Users can explore the data through an interactive map or search by address.
- Transloading, Material Handling & Storage Module: Introduced in 2023, this module provides filtering tools for identifying transportation modes, storage capacities, and rail connectivity. Customers can refine searches based on location and other key factors.
- Find Property Module: Going live in 2024, this module empowers users to explore Watco’s property offerings for business development. With detailed property profiles, interactive maps, and filters, customers can discover industrial parks, terminals, and potential development sites.
Driving Engagement with GIS Technology
GeoConnect is a powerful example of how GIS technology can revolutionize customer engagement. By integrating ArcGIS tools, Watco has created a solution that allows customers to explore services and offerings intuitively. From railcar storage to transload solutions, GeoConnect enables users to make informed decisions quickly and easily.
A Game-Changer for Watco’s Customers
According to Aaron Baumgarden, Watco’s Manager of GIS Programs, “GeoConnect has transformed how customers find railcar storage and transload options. In a competitive market, GeoConnect provides an intuitive, feature-rich platform for exploring Watco’s services, helping us stand out.”
About Watco: Leading Transportation and Supply Chain Services
Watco is a premier, single-source provider of transportation and supply chain solutions, with an extensive presence across North America and Australia. Established in 1983, Watco has evolved into a trusted name in the industry, offering unmatched expertise and a wide range of services that cater to diverse markets.
Comprehensive Network of Services
Watco owns and operates a robust network of short-line railroads, terminals, ports, and railcar repair facilities, ensuring seamless transportation and logistics solutions. From railcar storage and transloading to material handling and site development, Watco provides customized services that enhance efficiency and streamline operations for businesses of all sizes.
As a leader in transportation and supply chain management, Watco is committed to optimizing logistics processes, providing reliable service, and driving innovation in the industry.
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