6/19/15 Architects from Geodesy

Today we met Ann, a software designer, and her friends Chip and JP who are architects and software designers.  We had a great day talking about earthquakes, communities, and making connections.  Janie and I learned so much! And thanks for the wonderful pizza in the Castro, it was awesome!

Chip and JP started Geodesy ( pronounced "gee - odyssey").  "Geodesy creates Geospatial Information System (GIS) solutions for local, state, and federal government agencies and the built environment industries." A link to their website can be found here.  One of the goals in creating this software system was to model for clients (especially government agencies) the statistical potential for losses during a natural disaster like an earthquake, so that clients can use resources proactively to prevent damages instead of paying for rebuilding after an "event". Their GIS software models where damages are most likely to occur (bridges and roadways) so clients can prioritize retrofitting projects accordingly.  

Later in the day we went to the TransAmerican Building and the walked up to Coit Tower for terrific views of the city.

View of TransAmerica building from below.

Coit Tower selfie.

TransAmerica building from the top of the tower.

Alcatraz from the top of the tower.