The role of GIS-based spatial analysis in strategic management in local government

Abstract

While GIS is becoming more commonplace in local government, the application of GIS-based spatial analysis is less well developed, as GIS applications have tended to focus more on improving the efficiency of processing administrative tasks and on asset management rather than on “higher order” managerial tasks. The objectives of this paper are to review recent trends which are affecting the role and structure of local government; to review briefly the role of GIS in local government; to discuss the potential for improving spatial analysis in a public policy development setting; and, finally, to develop a research agenda which will seek to enhance the role of GIS-based spatial analysis in strategic management both in local government and in other organisations concerned with the development and implementation of public policy.