Participatory GIS

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Brief Description:

Participatory GIS (Geographic Information Systems) is a social learning tool that uses visual representations to aid facilitation.

Description:

GIS is used as a research tool in academia to capture, stores, analyse and present data that is linked to a location. Participatory GIS takes this idea and uses it to engage people in particular issues. It uses digital maps, satellite imagery, sketch maps, and others to help involvement and awareness on a local level.

Used For:

Attempting to engage local citizens and communities, especially underprivileged.

Suitable participants:

For organisations involved in participation and local citizens/stakeholders with an interest in local issues.

Cost:

Medium

Costs are based on organisation of an appropriate venue for a workshop, staff, equipment and food.

Time Requirements:

Used in a workshop format. Anything from 1 day+

When To Use / What It Can Deliver:

If used appropriately it could deliver:

Community empowerment

Innovation

Social change

When Not To Use / What It Cannot Deliver:

For smaller engagement projects.

Not suited for general problems facing society.

Strengths:

Creates a new perspective for local stakeholders.

Visual aspect is easily engaging.

Adaptable for different social and cultural environments.

Weaknesses:

Can be complicated to use, requires knowledgable researchers.

Origin:

The use of participatory maps began in the 1980's but really developed in the 90's with the advent of Geographic Information Systems. As access to spatial data became more widespread, so did its use in community centred initiaives.

Case Studies:

Related Methods

Graphic Recording

Restrictions In Use

None

Further Information

For further information, please see:

Integrated Approaches to Participatory Development

http://www.iapad.org/participatory_gis.htm

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