A geographic information system (GIS) is a system or hardware that creates, manages, analyzes, and maps data. GIS connects all types of data to a map, including but not limited to resource, operations, and socio/political data. This provides a foundation for mapping and analysis that is used in science and almost every industry. GIS helps users understand patterns, relationships, and geographic context. The benefits include improved communication and efficiency as well as better management and decision making.

Participatory mapping is a form of collaborative cartography that respectfully acknowledges – and subsequently incorporates and utilizes – the value of local and traditional knowledge. Through this
form of mapping, community stakeholders are intimately involved in the cartographic process. Participatory mapping is a method, tool, and framework for overcoming the political, social, and economic politics that is embedded in resource evaluation and distribution.

Participatory mapping (PM) refers to the multiple ways humans create and communicate knowledge, experience, and aspirations about the world in maps. A consistent aspiration of PM has been to engage and empower marginalized or under-represented groups in society through the use of spatial technologies.

An organization requiring GIS reporting will usually have in mind a specific deliverable, such as a set of employee distribution maps or a particular question to be answered by using third party data such as Census data. The maps can be provided in a paper and/or digital format.

All organizations can benefit from research conducted through spatial analyses. By incorporating the public, organizations can collect spatially informed data to make program and policy decisions, democratizing the decision-making process. From economic development to environmental conservation, social, cultural, and preference data can save resources by reducing distribution conflicts. 

Data is not always available in its most suitable format and may require conversion into a more suitable or usable format for GIS use. This may require the capture from paper maps into a digital format, or conversion from other. We can also provide guidance on the development and implementation of major GIS projects and data collection with the community.

Some Examples of GIS Spatial Analysis:

Improving political campaign outreach by properly managing canvas routes
Pinpointing areas within a city that lack specific and necessary social services
Choosing sales or delivery territories based on population statistics
Analyzing community preferences for new public policies and zoning plans
Creating and designing illustrated pathways for upcoming marathons, walking groups, and business districts

OT Consultancy Group provides GIS consultancy services for all sizes and types of organizations. We provide quality mapping and spatial analysis, allowing clients to benefit from GIS expertise at their convenience without the need for investment in software, data and training.

Our GIS Consultancy Offers:

• Advice and guidance through GIS Consultancy services
• GIS software set up of both commercial and open-source platforms
• Data sourcing for GIS projects
• Training and support
• Application development of GIS tools
• Geographic data capture services and data conversion

Counter mapping is  a specific type of civic mapping focused on liberation from political oppression. We have compiled this list of resources for those seeking support and answers. If you have any question, please email counter@otconsultancy.org