The first step to effectively using a geographic information system, GIS, is understanding what GIS is and how it works. The easiest way to think of a GIS is as a spatial data entry and management system that stores data as attached to a physical location instead of simply stored in a cell like in Excel. This makes GIS an especially useful tool for local governments because it allows information to be tied to different locations in the community. When the information is represented spatially it can open the door for seeing patterns and relationships that can be hard to discern when data is simply in spreadsheets or folders.   

GIS can serve many purposes for local governments looking to make data driven decisions, such as benchmarking and strategic planning. GIS can also be used to increase local government transparency, for example for local governments now use GIS to track 311 calls and make these maps publically available. Some communities are even using GIS to increase citizen engagement! It is a truly remarkable tool worth exploring for local governments of every size.

Below are some documents to get you started on incorporating GIS into your local government. As always these are just a sample of all the rich recourses on the Knowledge Network so if you are looking for something more specific feel free to ask a question, comment below, or search for additional documents.

• “Neighborhood Vitality Enhanced with Benchmarking and GIS” is an article about Garland, TX’s use of GIS to assess the condition of the city’s neighborhoods and to analyze the effectiveness of city programs.
• “Using GIS to Enhance Public Engagement in Auburn, AL” Shows how the city of Auburn used GIS to ensure that their tradition of strong citizen participation and small town charm remained as the population from by 25% in 10 years.
• “Can Government Create a Following? Leveraging the New GIS App Economy” Mapcentric apps provide a context for government activities and deliver transparency and accountability. This guide provides the basics for creating a place on the internet where citizens can engage with their government and identifies popular apps cities are using.
• “Geographic Information System Service: Strategic Plan” Read the Town of Farragut, TN is using GIS to analyze their municipal issues, goals, and objectives.
• “The GIS Guide for Elected Officials” This is a joint Esri-ICMA publication that teaches local government officials how GIS technology is being used by governments across North America. It includes ways in which GIS can be used to find policy solutions and to manage the day-to-day challenges that all local governments face.

If your local government has been using GIS submit a case study of your work to inspire other local governments and show them what is possible when they use GIS.

Robin Saywitz 

ICMA Knowledge Network Intern 

rsaywitz@icma.org