Implementing a GIS Unit: Case study of the NSW RFS
The use of GIS in many organisations usually begins through a number of passionate individuals taking an interest in the technology. In time the corporate use of GIS matures and an organisation will take the next step by implementing a formal GIS team. It is usually at this point where most organisations begin to hit some hurdles.
In 2000 the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) made this same step and like most organisations it didn’t go smoothly. Within three years the RFS found itself in a situation where the GIS Services Unit could not meet business expectations, seemed to be in conflict with many internal business units and was in the process of appointing its third GIS manager. This was the impetus for extensive changes which in 2006 resulted in the GIS unit receiving wide praise for its ability to support the many business requirements of the RFS.
This presentation will look at some of the issues and constraints experienced by the RFS in setting up a GIS unit over the last 6 years. It will look at both the lessons learnt and the improvements implemented. Some of the topics which will be looked at include; organisational structure and fit, staff selection, team dynamics, service delivery, expectation management and promotion, business continuity planning and change management.