Abstract
GIS Unshackled: Free ArcReader Helps Expand the Use of GIS Track: State and Local Government Author(s): Mohammed Hoque Local governments' tight budgets impede the rapid expansion of GIS. The town of West Springfield in Massachusetts, USA, found that ArcReader could be the solution. It is free, can be customized to make application simple, easy to learn but still connects GIS with other databases. The GIS unit of the town developed a couple of GIS applications by customizing ArcReader. These applications provide basic GIS functionalities to the users as well as allow them to get information from external databases like permits, tax assessment records, etc. Now, more departments are using GIS resources. The town replaced some ArcView licenses with ArcReader applications, and uses those licenses for more appropriate and advanced uses. It also requires minimum training to get the users going. Best of all, it costs the town nothing. The town is now exploring ways to tie ArcReader with ArcSDE APIs to make it a simple editor. Mohammed Hoque Town of West Springfield 26 central st West Springfield , MA 01089 US Phone: 413.263.3070 E-mail: thoque@west-springfield.ma.us |
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