Developing a web-based, collaborative PPGIS prototype to support public participation

Abstract

Web-based Public Participation Geographic Information System (PPGIS) tools, among others, have now been widely recognized as an efficient integral of sound planning processes to support the public involvement. However, Geographical Information System (GIS) alone cannot make the planning process more participative. Demands for web-based PPGIS tools, integrated with other information and computer-supported cooperative work (CSCW) tools, have rapidly become increasingly important for supporting public participation. This paper discusses a prototype development based on a research project that looks into integrating CSCW principles and groupware tools with web-based GIS. The study has been put into the context of public participation in municipal planning and development. A discussion of key design and implementation issues concludes the paper.