GIS is new, surveying is old and has a history. People will use data inappropriately and therefore, surveyors are reluctant to release their information. The definition includes many components of what GIS people do now. This is the 21 st Century, so let s move forward with better planning, mapping, assembling, and interpreting reliable scientific information and measurements relative to the location, size, shape or physical features of the earth, improvements on the earth, space above the earth, or any part of the earth with emphasis on reliable. Dialogue must continue, there must be more involvement, more cooperation, and above all more sharing of resources.
Education is a factor.
GIS certification is not an option at this point. There are too many issues to resolve before everybody jumps on the certification bandwagon.