Organizational considerations for implementation of GIS

Abstract

The GIS is a versatile tool for handling a variety of geographical data, and has some powerful spatial analytical functions. Its use for integrating and analysing information in a multidisciplinary resource study has been demonstrated. In the final analysis, the success in implementing a GIS depends on a sound organisational framework within which it operates. The paper highlights some practical organisational considerations, particularly within the Malaysian context. INTRODUCTION There is increasing interest in the use of geographical, spatial, information technology in Malaysia. This is evidenced by the number of organisations which have acquired, or are preparing to acquire such systems, and also by the number of vendors trying to sell such systems. This interest is fueled by the growing realisation of agencies that information relevant to human activities are spatial in nature, and therefore ought to be managed from a geographic perspective. The rapid advances computer technology, enabling high data volume handling, number- crunching power as well as the high-quality graphics output, has made computerised GIS attractive and affordable to many agencies.