Building Programmatic Capacity at the Grassroots Level: The Reactions of Local Nonprofit Organizations to Public Participation Geographic Information Systems

Abstract

Diffusion and acceptance of geographic information systems (GIS) technology is not fully understood in public or private organizations, and even less is known about the role of GIS in the nonprofit sector. Using spatial analysis, this study examines the extent to which nine nonprofit organizations in Columbia, Missouri, meet the needs of their target populations. Findings revealed that nonprofit entities met from less than 1% to about 20% of client demand for services. Reactions to GIS analysis of program outputs was largely positive, with most of the nonprofits expressing an interest in using GIS technology to further communication and networking with other organizations. GIS is viewed by nonprofit administrators as a potentially useful tool in grant applications, strategic planning, program reporting, and advocacy activities, among others. Nonprofit administrators embrace GIS if they can use it to help with more immediate and practical concerns, such as improving client care and services.