The information technology revolution at the neighborhood level : public participation GIS and the Community Development Corporation

Abstract

PPGIS is a connector concept that focuses on the developing approaches and applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and related computer technologies. It incorporates the interest of less powerful members in society while attempting to empower marginalized groups. On a small scale GIS has emerged as a tool within the CDC sector. This thesis is organized around the central question: How GIS can be used as a tool for civic engagement/public participation in the Community Development Corporation sector?, and examines three CDCs that employ civic engagement/public participation strategies, and who are also using GIS. Both the traditional neighborhood revitalization model and comprehensive community change model of CDCs are examined. As a collective the three cases presented in this study suggest that the impact of public participation on GIS is more evident when CDCs include their constituents in the planning process of GIS development.