Building a Public Works Information System

To effectively manage infrastructure, you need tools that allow you to visualize existing and proposed structures, accurately locate assets, view current conditions and project status, and make informed decisions about construction and maintenance. When you establish a public works information system with GIS at its core, you can centralize all your data and enrich applications with critical spatial information that helps you better maintain vital infrastructure.

 

A public works information system provides complete integration of your GIS and IT resources. GIS allows disparate datasets from across your organization to be brought together to create a complete picture of your infrastructure. During predesign analysis, for example, you can view maps of your project, site photos, computer-aided drafting files, survey measurements, and 3D renderings in one user-friendly system. In a public works information system, geospatial data is incorporated into work order, asset management, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems. Sharing appropriate information with the public online minimizes calls into your department and can offer a place for citizens to learn about your work, offer input, and submit service requests. When GIS is integrated with business systems, public works departments are better able to visualize and organize maintenance projects. Having all necessary information, such as the accurate location of assets, imagery, and service histories, in a GIS empowers you and other staff members to act fast and work efficiently. For further information, download the white paper, Building a Public Works Information System.