If the client s needs can be met through existing programs, they are referred to other resource professionals in public agencies or private practice. If the client s needs require new GIS technology or data, sponsored research is proposed. An example is the development of a GIS database and resource suitability models of the Raccoon River Greenbelt for the Dallas County Conservation Board. If the client s needs could be addressed through development of concepts and approaches by students who would also benefit, student outreach is proposed. In this case, undergraduate students can provide concepts and approaches if the client s needs are fundamental.
Graduate students can provide concepts and approaches if the client s needs require new knowledge.
An example is Michael Miller s thesis research on GIS descriptive modeling of GLO historic vegetation types for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Outreach opportunities that begin as studio projects or thesis research occasionally lead to sponsored research after initial investigation. An example is the development of a tourism database system for Welcome Centers operated by the Iowa Department of Economic Development. The converse is also true. Sponsored research occasionally creates outreach opportunities for students.