Geo-Coding

Geo-coding is the process of converting a postcode into a geographic location on a map. Each postcode in the UK has a pair of co-ordinates associated with it (x,y) in the National Grid. This then allows the points to be plotted on a map where the distribution of the points can then be visualised. (The distance between points can also be calculated, please click here for more information.)

The postcodes that are geo-coded might be customer homes in order that a retailer can assess where their customers are coming from and perhaps identify areas of a town where they have very few customers. Combining that information with other local information may assist the retailer in identifying why there are no customers in that part of town. Alternatively, the postcodes might be locations or branches of a UK retail chain. The map below shows locations of shops in the South-East of England overlaid on the county boundaries:

It can be seen from the map that generally the further from London you travel the fewer retailers of this particular chain there are, with East Kent being particularly poorly served. Additional information could be added to this map. For example, major roads could be added which may show that these stores are located on main routes into London.

If you have some postcode locations that you need to visualise and interpret the distribution of please contact Apogee. Alternatively fill in your details on our feedback form and a GIS Consultant will contact you shortly to discuss your requirements.