Location data carries geographic information. Any device that has a GPS signal to identify its location can provide location data. This data comes from mobile devices, smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other connected devices.
Ride-hailing apps and delivery apps use location data to serve their customers. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Grab rely heavily on location data. In their cases, location data is exchanged in order to connect drivers and customers. The apps analyse locations and automatically assign drivers to customers based on real-time location.
Logistics management uses location data to become more efficient. With location data, a company could see in real time where their delivery trucks are, and could alter their routes to save time and fuel.
Retailers may be able to deliver deals based on current location–in some cases, even offering precision promotions for items customers linger over in store.
There have, however, been concerns about privacy issues that stem from location data. Most websites and apps now request permission to access the user’s location. Users must then determine whether or not the services provided merit sharing their location data.
With technology evolving daily, location data continues to offer businesses new opportunities to serve their customers–and to make it worth the customer’s while to share it.
