The GIS service will be a pilot program. Partnerships with schools on campus will help make the system available to more students. CEES will also help inventory datasets for the system. Most importantly these pilot projects will help departments maximize the potential of GIS to their educational and research needs. With positive use for customized lessons, and accessing federal depository maps electronically, the system could grow.
Growth is dependent on the use and accessibility of the program.
The Geology Department is not the only department to benefit. Geography, Business, Social Work, and Political Science can make use of demographic and land boundary data. Particular data that might be used often or are of particular importance can be mapped and stored ahead for use in class lessons. Modern map making, which began in the Renaissance, is about to experience dramatic changes. As always suggestions and comments are welcomed.