Franz-Josef Behr

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Franz-Josef Behr serves as Senior Professor of Geospatial Information at Stuttgart University of Applied Sciences, specializing in Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI), Standards, Open Source solutions, data modelling, and disaster mapping. His academic leadership includes serving as Study Dean for the Master Programme Photogrammetry and Geoinformatics (2009-2022) and founding the internationally recognized AGSE conference series focused on geoinformatics for societal and environmental challenges.

Behr's research centers on geospatial interoperability, with expertise spanning SDI implementation, OGC standards evolution, and open source geospatial technologies. His work bridges theoretical frameworks with practical applications in disaster management, urban planning, and international development, particularly through capacity-building initiatives in Indonesia and India. Current investigations examine OpenStreetMap integration for official cadastres and modern API-based service architectures replacing traditional OGC web services.

Recent publications reveal strong trends toward practical implementations of open standards in governmental systems, UAV data processing for developing nations, and disaster response applications. His work consistently emphasizes interoperability, open data principles, and technology transfer to address real-world challenges in geospatial information management.

Scientific recognition includes:

• Best Poster Award at ISPRS Conference, Prague (2016)

Academic leadership extends globally through roles as Co-chair of the ICA Commission on SDI and Standards (2017-2023), membership in ISO/TC 211 standards committees, and service on Kerala's Digital University Board of Studies. He has significantly advanced geospatial education through the AGSE conference network spanning 12 countries and numerous international workshops.

As founder and chair of the AGSE conference series since 2009, Behr has cultivated a global network connecting academia, government, and industry across India, Peru, Kenya, Malaysia, Germany, Iran, Namibia, and Nepal. This initiative specifically focuses on applying geoinformatics to societal challenges including disaster management, sustainable development, and environmental monitoring through practical open-source implementations.