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GIS
ABOUT US
Background and History of GIS in Cupertino
The City of Cupertino has been using GIS within individual departments to enhance both operational and analytical functions since 1997. The City of Cupertino has organized their GIS efforts by placing GIS into the Information Technology Division. Centralizing GIS responsibilities within the I.T. Division has allowed the City to coordinate and manage GIS developments in concert with larger enterprise information system concerns. It is also more politically attractive to guide and coordinate multiple divisions within the City at the I.T. level.
The full realization of the City's GIS will enable departments and the public to better use GIS data for analysis, streamline and improve planning efforts, to foster productive sharing of information between departments, and to provide the public with timely, accurate location-based information.
What is Geographic Information System?
The term "geographic information systems" is applied loosely to a large group of interrelated technologies. For local governments, a GIS is a computer technology that combines geographic data (the locations of manmade and natural features on the earth's surface) and other types of information (names, classifications, addresses, and much more) to generate visual maps and reports. A GIS uses geographic location to relate otherwise disparate data and provides a systematic way to collect and manage location-based information crucial to local government.
A geographic information system centrally stores information about the world in a collection of map layers. Rather than having information in many formats stored in multiple places like filing cabinets, different computer systems, large binders or static paper maps, a GIS pulls together very different pieces of information into one system. These map layers may be overlaid and linked together to create maps, integrate information, visualize and compare scenarios, solve problems, and more effectively manage resources.
Today GIS technology is widely accepted as both a modeling and decision support tool by local governments. Supporters believe that GIS technology can enhance analytical capabilities, produce information with "added value", and generate the implications of a large number of alternatives quickly. Consequently, GIS technology is seen as helping to facilitate planning and to enhance the decision-making process by providing a rich database.
What is Internet-based mapping?
Internet-based mapping allows the user to view dynamic map information (objects within the map have `intelligence': by selecting an object, you can retrieve information) typically thru a web browser. This form of mapping is being used by many different organizations, for a multitude of purposes. Some key advantages to this type of technology are:
Users have dynamic, live access to information. As information changes and is updated, users see the results immediately.
Users can display and view multiple data sets simultaneously.
Conducting queries for specialized information is much easier. The City of Cupertino use Autodesk's MapGuide product to share map information to city employees and the public.
Related Links
About Us
Dynamic Maps
Map Archive
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
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