What is a Common Operating Picture (COP)?
A Common Operating Picture (COP) is a GIS-based computing platform that delivers real-time data for situational awareness, coordination, and communication—accessible to decision-makers around the world. Organizations aiming to optimize their internal processes can benefit significantly from establishing a centralized operational picture that provides the situational insight necessary for competitive, well-informed decisions.
With a COP in place, decision-makers gain a comprehensive view of all relevant factors impacting an event or scenario. Having robust situational awareness—particularly for real-time incidents—is critical to ensuring timely and effective responses.

Technology
As more industries realize the importance of situational awareness, they are increasingly investing in technology to maintain a shared perspective among all stakeholders. At 40Geo, our Raptor platform fosters total and true commonality by enabling real-time data sharing via interactive web maps and GIS systems. Multiple users, located anywhere, can simultaneously view and analyze the same data, promoting collaboration and clarity.
Through GIS/geospatial mapping tools, teams can make more intelligent decisions. Subject matter experts and analysts interpret incoming data, while managers and team leaders act on these insights. A COP bridges the gap, ensuring both groups stay aligned and informed.

Results
A well-implemented COP provides up-to-date, accurate information that decision-makers need to manage critical issues. This functionality has become indispensable across both military and civilian spheres—spanning the public and private sectors. From security threat monitoring to re-routing shipping fleets during supply chain disruptions, a robust COP can be the difference between a poor decision and a successful outcome.
Raptor, our flagship platform, epitomizes this concept by delivering real-time collaboration and unlimited data sharing through interactive web maps. Its ability to unify diverse data streams into a single, user-friendly interface equips organizations with clear, actionable intelligence—empowering them to navigate complex challenges with confidence.
