Introduction

National mapping agencies are unique. Their role and value is changing, influenced by numerous factors including public demands, emerging technologies, changing government priorities and initiatives as well as ongoing business, military, environmental and other needs.

Role and relevance of Geospatial information has permeated into all spheres of modern living. It is now widely used as an enterprise resource for sectors such as agriculture, building and construction, utilities, as well as location based business solutions in retail, banking, advertising and more. This evolution of geospatial application is partly due to the advancements in data capture methods, faster and automated data processing, sophisticated integration tools and platforms, combined with user awareness and uptake of technology. It is further amplified by the evolving perspective, vision and approach of the geospatial data producing agencies. While many such National Geospatial Agencies are taking lead in carrying forward this growth story, many others are eager to catch up and to leapfrog into becoming active contributors to their societies and economies in concrete and constructive ways.

The agenda of the program will be to talk about the current technology trend, success stories, build capacities and need to bring in change and transform the organisations and align with current trends for delivering quality content that drive the societies and economies.