There is a geospatial component to every decision that must be made, from the day-to-day management of our personal lives to the bigger national and international issues. Governments often find themselves stymied, tasked with coordinating massive immediate responses to events without having access to the most pertinent information. This is changing with the advances in GIS. National Mapping Organizations are now able to update large quantities of data quickly and disseminate it to first responders and policy makers. GIS provides information to those that need it when they need it, whether they are at their desks or in the field, leading to more informed decision-making in the public sector.
In the following interview, Esri's Mark Cygan speaks with Kelly Ng of FutureGov on how GIS provides a foundation for evidence-based decision making:
Esri: How can geospatial data support better decision making in government?
Let us know - what is your experience with GIS in government? Has it made an impact on how decisions are reached and responses coordinated? Where do you think quick access to geospatial information by those in government would make the biggest difference?
