GIS can serve many purposes for local governments looking to make data driven decisions, such as benchmarking and strategic planning. GIS can also be used to increase local government transparency, for example for local governments now use GIS to track 311 calls and make these maps publically available. Some communities are even using GIS to increase citizen engagement! It is a truly remarkable tool worth exploring for local governments of every siz

When 311 systems started coming online in the mid-1990's, their function was largely to answer questions and submit service requests on behalf of residents. 

Session: When an Emergency Hits Home