Masters Theses

Date of Award

8-1992

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Planning

Major Professor

David A. Johnson

Committee Members

Joseph Prochaska, George Bowen

Abstract

Geographic Information Systems (CIS) are computer based data processing tools that are becoming more and more integrated in local governments. This thesis investigates the feasibility of using a regionally applied CIS, specifically the Tennessee Valley Authority's (TVA's) CIS, in local government planning. It also tries to convey a sense of how local governments are currently viewing developments in CIS technology in regards to their own specific needs and how these developments can be applied in their various departments. A short history of CIS is presented, and the basic components and capabilities of a CIS are discussed. Along with this discussion, directions and trends in CIS development and use are reviewed for future reference. The applications of CIS in local government planning, including problems and opportunities, are examined to construct a foundational reference for the case studies. An abbreviated history of TVA is presented that includes information that led to the development of TVA's current CIS configuration and application areas. These application areas and the status of TVA's CIS is discussed, including CIS use in TVA's Reservoir Lands Planning Division. Conclusions for the thesis were formed from the information gathered during the performance of seven case studies of local governments in the east Tennessee area. These case studies were conducted to develop a basis for comparing local governments that are currently using CIS and those that are not, to a regional agency's efforts of applying a CIS. CIS is a tool that is becoming more widely used every day. Many local governments have discovered the benefits that a GIS can bring to their departments and many more are considering applying GIS to their daily operations. Some local governments have also discovered that installing a GIS may be prohibited by political, monetary or other constraints. Using another agency's already installed and efficiently running GIS is often a viable alternative to installing a new system. However comparisons must be made on the available data in the data base to the information needs of local governments. This type of comparison was performed and revealed that some, but not all of the data on TVA's data base is applicable. Trends in GIS technology indicate that GIS development is moving toward integration of various isolated systems into a global, or unified, system. Local governments must become aware, through education and application, that GIS technology is here to stay and is getting more complex and involved every day. If local governments postpone installing GISs they may soon be left behind, using outdated methods of operation in a high-tech world.

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