GIS becomes smarter! iDesktopX AI Assistant Function

Hello! I'm ippuku_time, a GIS implementation support consultant.

Welcome to the 16th installment of the "Learn SuperMap iDesktopX in 5 Minutes."

In the previous article, we explored the Layout and Printing feature that helps turn your analysis results into clear, visually appealing outputs.

This time, let's look at a futuristic capability with the potential to transform GIS workflows: the AI Assistant.

Experience a new era of operating GIS through natural language—just like talking to your own personal consultant.

1. What is the AI Assistant?

The AI Assistant built into iDesktopX is a conversational operation-support feature powered by large language models (LLMs)—the technology behind today's most advanced AI systems.

Rather than searching for the right tools or configuring complex parameters, users can simply type natural Japanese instructions such as “Please do ~” into a chat window. The AI understands the intent and performs the requested GIS operations automatically.

This dramatically lowers the learning curve for beginners while also helping experts speed up repetitive workflows.

iDesktopX can connect to multiple LLMs, including world-leading models such as OpenAI's GPT, Google's Gemini, and Anthropic's Claude.

Figure: Example of how the AI Assistant executes GIS operations based on natural language input

2. Three Core Functions of the AI Assistant

Modern AI assistants excel in the following three task categories:

(1) Intelligent Q&A

The AI answers questions about GIS operations and performs simple commands.

Examples:

• Typing "Open Minato-ku workspace" opens the corresponding file.

• Asking  "What is the coordinate system of this map?"  returns the map's coordinate system information.

• Typing  "Import SHP file" brings up the file selection dialog.

(2) Intelligent Mapping

Automatically creates and edits thematic maps based on natural language instructions.

Examples:

• With the Minato Ward building layer selected, typing

  "Create a graduated thematic map using building height (Height field)" automatically generates a height-based thematic map.

• Additional instructions like "Change the color scheme to a blue gradient" adjust the styling.

(3) Intelligent Modeling

Assists in constructing workflows (models) that combine multiple GIS processing tools.

Example:

Typing "Create a model that overlays building data with Minato Ward flood-expected areas to extract buildings at risk", prompts the AI to place the required tools (such as overlay analysis) onto the model canvas and generate a workflow template.

3. How to Use the AI Assistant

Using the AI Assistant is simple:

1) Display the panel

Go to View → Show → AI Assistant to display the panel on the right side.

2) Choose a task type

Choose from:

• Intelligent Q&A

• Intelligent Mapping

• Intelligent Modeling

3) Configure model settings

Select the LLM you'd like to use and enter your API key.

4) Enter instructions

Type natural Japanese instructions into the chat box and send them.

Summary

Today we introduced iDesktopX's AI Assistant, a feature that offers a glimpse into the future of GIS. With simple natural language interaction, users can search for data, create thematic maps, and even build analytical workflows—shifting GIS from "How do I do this?" to "What do I want to achieve?"

This capability greatly expands the accessibility and potential of GIS, ushering in an era where anyone can leverage geospatial intelligence.

Next time, in Part 17, we'll cover "Leave All Your Routine Tasks to Us! Process Automation," which ties closely into the AI Assistant's intelligent modeling functionality. Stay tuned!