Abstract
 GIS: A Well Needed Technology for Development in Lebanon Track: Census and Geodemographics Author(s): Oussama Jadayel, Rita Ibrahim In modern day Lebanon, the identification of local needs for future development is dependent on the ability to access and manage spatial information. This article is concerned with the geographical treatment of socio-economic data compiled from the northern Lebanese region of Joumeh, an underdeveloped locality, which extends over 98 km2 and covers eighteen towns and villages. Field-based surveys acquired from 4,900 households reflected living standards of inhabitants in terms of employment, health, education, migration, social activity, role of women, etc. The application of statistical analysis and GIS technologies was instrumental in clearly communicating spatial variations and was successful in quantifying key indicators for monitoring life quality. The objective was to develop a systematic methodology which enables the implementation of local improvements according to regional priorities. Also, it is the intention to integrate the GIS within the municipalities to strengthen the capacity of the local government within the region. Oussama Jadayel University of Balamand GIS Center University of Balamand, POBox: 100 Tripoli , null n/a LB Phone: (+961) 6 930250 Fax: (+961) 6 930278 E-mail: oussama.jadayel@balamand.edu.lb Rita Ibrahim University of Balamand GIS Center POBox: 100 Tripoli n/a LB Phone: (+961) 6 930250 Fax: (+961) 6 930278 E-mail: rita.y.ibrahim@balamand.edu.lb |
|||||
