Without this planning, a GIS implementation can easily run over budget and still not provide a measurable benefit to the organization. GIS managers and coordinators face several challenges. This course provides the tools to follow this formula in a flexible environment where busy managers can control when and where they learn. The skills and methods of GIS planning and management presented in the course are based on Dr. Tomlinson's extensive real-world experience. His 35 years of working with GIS worldwide have resulted in a clear understanding of what makes GIS work and how to make implementations successful.
Students learn how to develop a planning proposal and get approval from senior management.
They also learn how to determine an organization's GIS requirements, focus on those requirements during the planning process, and use the requirements to assess the size and scope of the system needed. Since Planning for a GIS takes a generic approach to GIS planning, no specific software is required. The course consists of nine modules and the first module, GIS Planning Basics, is free. Planning for a GIS is appropriate for GIS managers at both large and small organizations.