Measuring and modelling the performance of SDIs at the sub-national level - some research challenges

Governments create and consume vast quantities of data and information technology. It is estimated that approximately 80% of decisions made by government agencies have a geographic or spatial dimension. Spatial data infrastructure (SDI) is now critical to the delivery of emergency services such as ambulance, fire and police; however, its effectiveness and efficiency is largely unknown. Providing affordable access to spatial information to the community has the capacity to influence and stimulate economic growth by facilitating business opportunities. However, limited efforts have been made to develop appropriate methodologies and metrics to assess, evaluate and report on the performance of SDI initiatives, particularly at the state and local government levels. This paper examines the process of measuring and modelling of the performance of SDIs, particularly at the sub-national level. A number of research challenges are identified which the author argues are essential to strengthening the capacity of government agencies by developing best practice performance measures, promoting the continued growth of the domestic spatial information industry and enhancing public access and participation in land related decision making.