The State Government today accepted an international award for its innovative use of geographic information systems.

Oct 2, 2014 -- Communities and Social Inclusion Minister Zoe Bettison said her Department won the award for its use of geographic computer software to identify the most efficient ways to deliver its services to South Australian communities.

“The Department used GIS technology to collect, access and share information across all levels of government and the community sector in an internet application named MapIQ,” Ms Bettison said.

“MapIQ is an interactive directory that pulls together DCSI’s community and social services in one electronic map.

“After a few clicks, MapIQ displays the location of services and basic details like phone numbers and addresses.

“GIS has proven to be a highly effective tool for ensuring that government delivers collaborative and relevant support to our community.

“As well as being used by members of the public seeking services, MapIQ can be used by service providers, including the Department, to map demographic information to help understand where services are most needed.

“DCSI is one of only two award winners nationwide and has been chosen alongside other international winners nominated and assessed by software maker Esri.”

MapIQ also allows people to quickly research what services are in their neighbourhood, or look for areas that have the specific services they need.

GIS software is currently used by about 400,000 organisations around the world, including many state and federal government agencies operating in South Australia. DCSI first adopted the technology in 2004.

Esri Australia Managing Director Brett Bundock said DCSI is one of the country’s most progressive users of GIS technology, with the software underpinning their practices for more than a decade.

“In this latest landmark project, the Department created an intuitive online mapping website which provides residents with easy access to information on more than 7000 community services,” Mr Bundock said.

“GIS technology is widely acknowledged for delivering considerable productivity gains to organisations – however this is the first time the technology has been used to provide a single state-wide view of community service information from multiple agencies.

“In terms of GIS technology deployment, this system will no doubt serve as a blueprint for cross-organisation collaboration for other government departments nation-wide.

“The Special Achievement in GIS Award recognises the global significance of this project – both in terms of the efficiency outcomes for the Department, as well as the implications for the broader government sector, which will look to MapIQ as the new ‘best practice’.”

MapIQ is available at http://mapiq.dfc.sa.gov.au/MapIQ/