Community GIS Software

Summary

GIS software allows viewers to access complex geographical data about their community online including maps and satellite images. GIS systems also analyze and display data such as proposed development plans and statistics, and survey data.

Tool Description

Like Google Earth, only localized and more detailed, an increasing number of communities are developing websites with complex geographic data and many of the data viewing and analysis capabilities of GIS software.  Residents can go onto a site and view maps, aerial photos, and satellite images of their neighborhoods, but also proposed development plans, crime rate statistics, and ecological survey data.

Community mapping systems are frequently created in response to a particular project, such as a town master planning process, new land acquisition proposals, or educational initiatives.  The goal may be simply to educate residents by providing information about the community’s geography.  More potent projects also have a goal of involving more people in planning decisions by soliciting feedback on proposals or by engaging them in the place.  In most cases, mapping systems are also designed to serve as databases for town geographic data; for small communities without GIS departments or staff, these systems may be the only official repository of data.  Though rare, some community mapping systems allow users to input data as well as use it; others are designed with community character uses in mind, in addition to typical administrative and research use.

Summary of Costs

Costs associated with Community GIS Mapping include the computer systems and software necessary to run and develop GIS Maps. Since these systems need constant updating, the cost of employing someone to develop and maintain the site could be significant.
Associated Costs
  • Operation
  • Technical Assistance
  • Training

Strengths

  • Providing GIS data and mapping capabilities to individuals, communities, and NGOs is a powerful way to increase engagement with place, scientific rigor of planning decisions, and awareness of land use issues.
  • Community mapping systems are a cost-effective and efficient way of putting such technology in the hands of a large number of people. The have been used extensively in coordination with environmental education, school curriculums, and youth programs.

Limitations

  • While effective in many ways, mapping systems still require a relatively large investment of time and money; they require constant updating and troubleshooting; and users must be have relatively sophisticated computer abilities and systems.
  • Community mapping systems may help to level the playing field of geographic knowledge to some extent, but there will still be an imbalance and the technology will remain out of reach to many citizens.
Submitted By: svannostrand
Last Updated: October 14, 2011, 10:52 am

Submitted by mcbride05 on Thu, 06/17/2010 - 10:53.

It would be helpful to list key GIS platforms like ESRI.

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