Strategic and Business Planning for Corporate GIS

Author: Edward Riegelmann
Organization: CH2M Hill

City Center Plaza
455 E. Pikes Peak Avenue, Suite 300
Colorado Springs, CO 80903-3674
USA

Phone: 719-633-8805
Fax: 719-633-2352
eriegelm@ch2m.com

Leadership has always been responsible for strategic intelligence, reasoning, and planning. Leaders are beginning to visualize the need for and application of geospatial information technologies to assist in the management of lands, facilities, and natural and cultural resources. Traditionally the requirements for and implementation of geospatial information technologies have been the domain of technical staff. However, by using program management constructs that are familiar to leadership we can now develop geospatial information technology strategic plans that satisfy the needs of management for planning, managing, and funding geospatial information technology efforts. A strategic plan creates a common expectation of an integrated geospatial information environment where information technology components work together for customers. Strategic and business planning provide a road map to capitalize on geospatial information technologies to realize more efficient and effective business support. Strategic and business planning activities can substantially reduce the many uncertainties of a GIS implementation. It helps provide a clear sense of direction and purpose to the effort.

The presentation will emphasize the importance of strategic planning for GIS as an effective method to communicate needs, establish realistic goals, and manage expectations for leadership. The focus of the presentation will be an examination of cultural precedence, federal policy guidelines, and components of strategic planning, as well as the benefits and challenges beyond the GIS strategic plan.