Aim

To recognize those who are using GIS to benefit the organisation deploying it.  This is not a poster competition but a search for those that have embraced GIS technology to a maximum advantage.

Entry

All New Zealand users of ESRI software are eligible to enter.  However you must attend the conference to be eligible to submit an entry.  You may only enter each map/ poster once any entries displayed last year, for example, are not eligible.

There is no limit on the number of entries by individual, team or organisation.

Fees

Completely Free.

The Prizes

One economy class return air ticket to the San Diego ESRI Users Conference 2010.  (We trust that the winner will be able to get funding for their own accommodation, conference registration and other expenses).  The recipient will be the organisation rather than the winning individual.

There will be prizes for the remanding four winners.

What we will need from you

1.                  A "demonstration of benefit" piece of work (map, chart, report).  Please check with us if in doubt.

2.                  A piece of text that described two things:- explains the nature of the work undertaken, and (in measureable terms if possible) the benefits (see criteria)  gained by this work.  Two paragraphs is ideal, more or less is still fine.

3.                  The authors name, job title and organisation.  Please also tell us the type of printer/ plotter/ data format used as this is a unique opportunity of us all to compare how the various makes and models shape up.

Criteria

1.                  Cost savings resulting from greater efficiency, i.e. labour savings from automating or improving workflow etc.

2.                  Better decision making, this typically has to do with making better decisions about location.  People are beginning to realise that making the correct decision about a location is strategic to the success of an organisation.

3.                  Improved communication.  GIS Based maps and visualizations greatly assist in understanding situations and reporting.  A new language that improves communication between different teams, departments, disciplines, organisations, and the public.

4.                  Better geographic information recordkeeping.Geographic accounting whether it be zoning, population census, forest inventories or land ownership etc.

5.                  Managing geographically. In government and many larger companies, GIS is becoming essential to understand what is going on.  Geography is emerging as a new way to organise and manage organisations.

Judging

This year´s judges will be representatives from ESRI.  However, they will be independent, impartial and knowledgeable in GIS matters.  Their decision is final.  The judges will select five pieces of work that show the most benefit.  The five finalists will be placed in a draw for the major prize.  The draw will take place at the dinner of the User Conference.

Closing date

23 October 2009

We all benefit by sharing good ideas, and last years submissions showed the great variety of work being undertaken around the country.  In sending in your entries you not only enter the competition, but also contribute to sharing ideas which helps the whole GIS user community onto greater success.