Source of Latitude and Longitude Data

The latitude and longitude coordinates in Shovels' data are derived from our proprietary geocoding process. Rather than relying on a single third-party service, we perform this geocoding ourselves using multiple reference sources to ensure accuracy. Our process cross-references addresses against several authoritative datasets including the National Address Dataset from the US Census, the Open Address dataset, Simple Maps, and ESRI. This multi-source approach allows us to achieve higher accuracy rates than depending on any single geocoding service. Accurate geocoding is particularly important in the construction industry, where precise location information can impact everything from permit jurisdiction to zoning requirements. These coordinates enable our customers to perform spatial analysis, create map visualizations, calculate distances, and identify geographic patterns in construction activity. The geocoding process is part of our broader address standardization pipeline, which ensures consistent formatting and accurate location data across our entire database, regardless of how addresses may have been formatted in the original permit records.