Working with Geographic Information Systems in a Policy Environment

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Abstract
It is clear that geographic information systems (GIS) offer many new opportunities for both geographic research and planning practice. The problem is how to cope with these possibilities and how to resolve the various technical problems which beset the present generation of GIS. Two fundamental problems of GIS will be discussed. On the one hand, GIS systems are not advanced enough in that their functionality is limited, whereas, on the other hand, their possible use in practice is already too difficult because of the technical expertise required in their operation. Therefore, a distinction is made between different types of users of spatial information. These distinctions have important consequences in the area of practice, in particular in the application of the present generation of GIS software. The current possibilities of GIS usage and their strengths and weaknesses are discussed in relation to the requirements of these various users. A strategy designed to meet these different forms of use is outlined. An information system called RIA (Regional Information through Automation) has been developed for public decisionsmakers and involved citizens in the Netherlands. It is based on a large and flexible GIS. The context in which RIA has been developed is discussed and a technical description of the system provided.

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