SC Johnson, the company behind the 'Off!' brand of mosquito repellants, teamed up with 'Climate Engine' to create a mosquito forecast tool based on Google's services. The 'Off!Cast' seeks to inform visitors of the estimated level of mosquitos in their area based on previous trends, temperature patterns, and many other points of information obtained from Google and Google Maps.
After creating its algorithm that makes mosquito level estimations, the companies ran the tool for several previous years then cross referenced the tools outputted information with the actual reported mosquito levels. The companies found that its tool was within a minimal enough margin of error to be considered reliable and accurate. Users can enter their postal code on Off!'s new Off!Cast webpage in order to view their own mosquito forecast.
Image Credit: S.C. Johnson
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Insect-level Forecasting
- Combining data analysis with biological information to predict insect population trends and behaviors.
- Precision Location-based Forecasting
- Using location-based data to make accurate predictions of environmental and weather-related conditions.
- Collaborative Forecasting Solutions
- Partnerships between companies and data analysts to create advanced forecasting tools for consumer use.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Consumer Goods
- Consumer goods companies can develop innovative tools like insect forecasting to help them better understand their customers' needs.
- Environmental Services
- Companies that provide environmental or weather-related services can use location data and predictive analytics to provide more accurate forecasting.
- Data Analytics
- Data analytics companies can partner with consumer goods manufacturers to develop innovative forecasting tools based on deep analysis of large data sets.
