GIS has evolved to become more and more an integral part of the enterprise operations in any business. Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) is becoming a popular choice as deployment architecture. Various departments within an organization typically use or try to use the SOA to access services, data and applications to conduct their business. GIS and other services are being deployed and consumed to address business goals and routine operations. Moreover, there are legacy data support techniques, and data dissemination processes that makes an enterprise implementation seamless and sensible. Weston has been involved as a “Trusted Integrator” on many such enterprise GIS integration projects and would like to discuss some related case studies. Some challenges always present themselves during any enterprise implementation. But there are some key traits and steps for a successful enterprise implementation. Weston would like to cover those as well during the presentation.

How do we continue to build and manage a successful enterprise GIS in tough economic times? How can we leverage existing organizational initiatives for project dollars? How can I add capacity with a hiring freeze? This session will include real world strategies and solutions presented by some of the most experienced GIS managers and consultants in the Northwest. A solid enterprise approach to GIS combines the software, architecture, management, and planning that is required to integrate GIS fully into the organization’s business. This approach is always important to GIS implementation and management; however, it is critical in times where competition for budget dollars is very tight.

Our speakers lead and support efforts in organizations where GIS is thriving. Each will present a different aspect of their successful approach to enterprise GIS in the current economy, including insights into technology, funding, project planning, coordination, and executive support. The session will conclude with a lively discussion among our speakers and the audience.