The Emergence of Enterprise GIS
The term “Enterprise GIS” is widely used and often misunderstood. It has been used to refer to an enterprise software license, to a centralized repository, a common mapping website, and other tangible items. While these examples can be components of an Enterprise GIS, they do not alone define a comprehensive GIS approach that aligns with the priorities of the greater enterprise.
An Enterprise GIS provides a comprehensive suite of capabilities, integrated into organizational workflows, that supports and helps attain enterprise priorities.
Notice that this definition does not refer to platforms and technologies. An Enterprise GIS does not necessarily need to be an Expensive GIS. While a large organization with extensive systems may need a significant investment in GIS technology, a smaller organization may achieve an aligned approach through careful targeting of resources to key priorities.
The core characteristics of an Enterprise GIS include:
- Quality Data Architecture & Management
- Accessibility at all user levels
- Workflow and System Integration
- Demonstrated Return On Investment
- Sustainability
The proposed maturity model will evaluate these characteristics in detail at each level.
Why a GIS Maturity Model?
Changes in both geographic technology and enterprise software are driving fundamental changes in the once isolated GIS world.
While an organization may recognize a strategic value in the use of GIS, it will not settle for inaccessible data and tedious workflows. GIS divisions are evolving from a small group of GIS practitioners to a much more visible, and technical development organization.
The GIS Maturity Model proposes definitions and characteristics of the various stages travelled on the way to a true Enterprise GIS operation. It both supports benchmarking of current organizations and the development of roadmaps to progress to the next level.
GIS Maturity Levels in Brief
Each level below describes typical stages in the development of an Enterprise GIS. Many organizations may have a foothold in more than one level as they evolve. This evolution is often necessary to build the understanding and support needed to sustain the highest level.
Level 1 – Enthusiasts
This is typically the introduction level of GIS to an organization. Individuals with interest obtain tools and use the technology on an ad-hoc basis to support their own deliverables. GIS technology tends to be individually licensed at the desktop level. Data is acquired for one-time use and discarded.
Level 2 – Department Based
During Level 2, specific departments, usually the home of enthusiasts, recognize the value of building GIS capability for department use. The Department may support local equipment and supplies and designate resources to provide GIS services to department users. Copies of GIS data are stored in the department for its use. Multiple departments maintain separate copies of base data. Informal user groups start to meet and share best practices.
Level 3 – Centralized
Centralized GIS organizations are established at Level 3. The value of centralizing redundant data maintenance and equipment is often the catalyst for this change. The Central GIS begins to set standards that improve data quality and internal GIS workflows. Formal request mechanisms are established.
Server based licensing and more complex database software becomes necessary. GIS applications are developed to provide a central GIS website and self-service tools.
Level 4 – Integrated
At Level 4, the GIS organization looks beyond its internal workflows to how it can enhance operations.
Integration between enterprise applications and GIS functions gains greater visibility and demands more advanced data models and technology.
The GIS organization starts to develop a strategic plan for the technical development and sustainability of its operations. GIS Steering Committees are established to obtain input and direction from operational leaders.
Level 5 – Enterprise
At level 5, the GIS Strategic Plan is aligned with the overall Enterprise Strategic Plan. GIS is recognized as a tool to both improve efficiency and decision making. GIS integration becomes more seamless with enterprise and mission-critical systems. GIS data attributes become more embedded in traditional databases. GIS capability becomes on-demand, wherever demanded, as the focus on mobile applications and personalized tools increases. The GIS organization itself has become more technical and project oriented.
The Model in Detail...
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