Overview

As early pioneers in the use of digital geographic data, many local governments in the UK were ahead of their counterparts in central government and the private sector in the application of GIS technology. To meet current challenges, local authorities must coordinate the latest technology with effective information management strategies, human and cultural issues, and organizational structures and processes. Geographic Information Management in Local Government examines the factors that are necessary to ensure that real benefits are delivered from the improved availability of geographic information. Written by two practitioners with extensive government experience, this four-part book examines supporting technology, the data that fuels it, and the human factors that help or hinder successful GIS implementation. Exploring the history of geographic information management in local government, this volume offers a pragmatic overview of the subject and what local authorities need to do in order to be successful. The Introduction covers the emergence of Geographic Information Management (GIM) and GIS in local government and explains why they are important. Part 2 explains the key elements of human and organizational issues, data, the technology toolbox, GIS selection and implementation, and coordinating mechanisms. Part 3 provides in-depth analyses of nine case studies on the use of technology by local UK authorities. Part 4 looks forward to the prospects and challenges for further GIM by local governments.

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9780748409358

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Reviews

I commend the publication of this book. Its structure and practical approach to the subject, including its use of highly relevant case studies for different types and sizes of authority, should do much to reinforce and advance the message that geographical information is an immensely powerful tool that can bring enormous benefits to local authorities and the people they serve. Vanessa Lawrence, Director General and CEO, Ordnance Survey Great Britain, from the Foreword This book tells you everything you need to know about GIS in a local government environment. It assumes little previous knowledge and tells the tale from the inception of GIS to where we are todayThe case studies in the book are particularly well structuredIt's a thoroughly enjoyable read and covers the ground admirably. - Socitm News, Issue 84, June 2005 The book's undoubted appeal lies in the nine case studies of British local authorities and how they have put GIM into practicestudents studying the use of GIS in local government (and organisations in general) will find it a useful source of relatively up-to-date British examples, and practitioners in local government starting out in GIS will find it an accessible introduction. - Environmental and Planning B: Planning and Design

"""I commend the publication of this book. Its structure and practical approach to the subject, including its use of highly relevant case studies for different types and sizes of authority, should do much to reinforce and advance the message that geographical information is an immensely powerful tool that can bring enormous benefits to local authorities and the people they serve."" Vanessa Lawrence, Director General and CEO, Ordnance Survey Great Britain, from the Foreword ""This book tells you everything you need to know about GIS in a local government environment. It assumes little previous knowledge and tells the tale from the inception of GIS to where we are todayThe case studies in the book are particularly well structuredIt's a thoroughly enjoyable read and covers the ground admirably."" - Socitm News, Issue 84, June 2005 ""The book's undoubted appeal lies in the nine case studies of British local authorities and how they have put GIM into practicestudents studying the use of GIS in local government (and organisations in general) will find it a useful source of relatively up-to-date British examples, and practitioners in local government starting out in GIS will find it an accessible introduction."" - Environmental and Planning B: Planning and Design"

Author Information

Gilfoyle, Ian; Thorpe, Peter

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