Choosing the right Geographic Information System (GIS) software is a critical decision for any organization. The right GIS can streamline operations, improve decision-making, and enhance data management. Here are some essential questions to consider when evaluating a new GIS software:
1. What Are Your Goals?
Before diving into the specifics of different GIS solutions, defining your goals is crucial.
- What do you hope to achieve with the new software?
- Are you looking to improve data accuracy, enhance spatial analysis capabilities, or streamline workflows?
- What challenges are you experiencing, and how can GIS software help you overcome them?
- Do you need advanced analysis capabilities, such as geostatistics and multivariate geospatial statistics?
Understanding your objectives will help you identify the features and functionalities that are most important for your organization. Make a list of your goals and rank them in order of importance.
2. Who Will Use the GIS?
Consider the end-users of the GIS software.
- Will it be used by field workers who need mobile access, office staff who require robust desktop features, or a combination of both?
- How many licenses will you need?
- Will it be used by advanced researchers seeking to generate and test hypotheses?
Identify the primary users and their needs to guide you in selecting a system that offers the right balance of accessibility and functionality.
3. How Can a GIS Improve Your Processes?
Evaluate your current workflows and identify areas where a GIS can add value and increase efficiency. For instance, can it help link important documents to assets, visualize parcel records, or improve data collection methods? Can it accelerate analytics, perhaps through advanced visualization methods and space-time analysis?
A GIS shouldn’t simply fit into your existing processes, but enhance them.
4. What Kind of Technology Will Help You Succeed?
Assess the technological requirements of the GIS software.
- Does it support the data formats you use? For example, Vesta supports data sources with different geographic projections, such as Esri Shapefiles and Excel files.
- Is it compatible with your existing systems and hardware?
- Is data security important, and do you need to comply with HIPAA or other confidentiality requirements?
Consider the scalability of the software and whether it can grow with your organization’s needs.
5. Does It Integrate Well with Other Systems?
Integration capabilities are vital for GIS software. Ensure that the GIS can seamlessly integrate with other systems such as statistical analysis, accounting, asset management, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems. This will help in creating a cohesive workflow and avoiding data silos.
6. What Kind of Support and Training Is Available?
Evaluate the support and training options provided by the GIS vendor.
- Does the vendor offer comprehensive training programs, user manuals, and customer support?
- How much training is required to effectively use the software?
- Is detailed documentation available for reference?
- How long will it take for your staff to get up to speed?
Having access to expert support can significantly reduce the learning curve and help your team get the most out of the software.
7. What Are the Costs Involved?
Consider both the initial and ongoing costs of the GIS software. This includes licensing fees, maintenance costs, and any additional expenses for training and support.
- Is the software easy to use, or will you need to hire trained GIS jockeys to run the software?
- Will ongoing credits need to be purchased to access different software features?
Ensure that the software fits within your budget while still meeting your needs.
8. Is the Software Secure?
Security is a critical aspect of any software solution. Ensure that the GIS software has robust security measures in place to protect sensitive data. Can it run effectively behind a firewall? This includes:
- Data encryption
- User authentication
- Regular security updates
9. What Is the Vendor’s Track Record?
Research the vendor’s reputation and track record. Look for reviews, case studies, and testimonials from other organizations that have used the software. A vendor with a proven track record of successful implementations is more likely to deliver a reliable and effective solution.
By asking these questions, you can make a more informed decision and choose a GIS software that best fits your organization’s needs. Remember, the right GIS can be a powerful tool for improving efficiency, accuracy, and decision-making.
Your Next GIS Software
We hope this helps you in evaluating your next GIS software! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask support@biomedware.com or claim your free trial with Vesta here.