The SFA Arboretum has set East Texas in a distinct position in native plant conservation, having already created an important center in East Texas for native plant research and outreach. The facility is among the first arboretums in the state to innovatively use computer technology in facilities management, plant research, and outreach activities. The fourth issue is the application of automated technology in native plant conservation. Automated drawing software packages provide scientists and educators with tools to examine and present concepts of laboratory and field experiments. The software enables easy update, retrieval and display of graphic information.
Databases are another tool for botanical science research.
Only in the last few years have botanical gardens and arboretums started to automate card files and create visual images of their gardens. Many have initially employed CAD packages, particularly AutoCad, accessing databases to update information and expand plant research. GIS technology was introduced to the audience from the Director of the Arizona Desert Arboretum, responsible for mapping and databasing thousands of desert species of the southwest. GIS technology has emerged as the premier approach to data storage, manipulation, and analysis. Data structures allow questions to be asked about the graphic features, which are answered by the attributes assigned to specific locations.