Abstract

COMMUNITYVIZ® Planning Support System Implementation In Rural Local Comprehensive Planning
Track: GeoDesign
Authors: Jeffrey Hamerlinck

Planning support systems have been hailed as a logical extension of GIS in local planning environments, where geospatial technologies and data are combined to support complex spatial problem solving and workflow processes. Unfortunately, implementation of these GIS-based technologies has been slow and often unsuccessful; to realize their full potential it is necessary to gain a better understanding of the technical and institutional factors influencing their adoption and use. This paper describes the design and outcomes of a multi-case analysis focused on how geospatially-enabled PSS are currently being utilized in rural local planning and the relationships between PSS implementation and spatial data infrastructure development in such environments. The cases provide a viable assessment of CommunityViz® specifically in comprehensive planning. Both positive adoption factors and implementation barriers are identified, as is the critical role of a mature GIS/SDI infrastructure. Finally, the function of external consultants in facilitating PSS use is explored.