Why do we update the map?
Roads change and we need to make sure we are providing data on the most up to date road network.
How often is the map update?
The map update happens twice a year. These typically fall within the March/April timeframe (20.1 was on March 30, 2020) and the September/October (20.2 was on Sept 29).
Does the naming convention of the map update have meaning?
Yes. For example, 20.2 is the second map update in 2020.
Do the Segment IDs change during each map update?
During map updates the segments change. This can sometimes mean that segments are added for new roads, but it can also mean that existing segmentation can change. During each map update we work to ensure that segmentation stays very consistent. During the 18.1 to 18.2 map update, you may have seen many segmentIDs change along a corridor. This was due to a large base map change. However, in general, we work to keep changes below 5%. In this past map update, we had a change rate of around 3%.
Do we have to make changes because of these SegmentID changes?
Yes and no. During each map update, INRIX rolls up all of the historical data on the new map. For example, in this past map update all data prior to Sept 29, 2020 (when 20.2 was released) was on the 20.1 map. This means that if you were calling for any data from Jan 1, 2014 to Sept 28, 2020, you would receive it back on the 20.1 map. Once 20.2 was released on Sept 29, all data is on the 20.2 map from Jan 1, 2014 for all dates going forward. This ensures that when you are doing YOY studies in the RA tool, you do not have to take into account the map update change.
However, if you are downloading data and doing your analysis offline, you will notice this change and will need to consider it as you do your offline comparisons. For example, if you download data for Jan – March 2019 on Sept 28,2020 you would have received all data on the 20.1 map. However, if you downloaded data on Sept 30, 2020 for Jan – March 2019, you would have received all data on the 20.2 map. This map would have around 3% changes in segments.
When you are considering your offline analysis, we recommend that you take this into consideration and we are happy to have further discussion with you on this if you would like.
If I am only using data within the tool, will I notice a difference after map update?
You may notice a difference in increased coverage. In addition, if you have routes that you have previously worked with, you will see a [Manual Review Required] tag in your studies section. If you see this, you will need to go into that route and ensure that all segments are covered.
How do we get notified about map update?
INRIX has a notification list. If you have not received notifications in the past or would like to be added to the list, please reach out to support@inrix.com with all the people from your organization that you would like to add