THE IMPACT OF GIS TECHNOLOGY

In this paper the empirical findings and basic frameworks used in the evaluation of GIS are reviewed. In the studies reviewed, a variety of evaluation criteria are employed, but they still contribute sporadic, unsystematic, and inconclusive evidence. Going beyond a discussion abo ut the need for measuring GIS impacts, and an uncritical and unselecti ve adoption of computerized tools, I emphasize here the importance of assessment and feedback for better adaptation of GIS technology to the needs of urban planning. Comprehensive, multidimensional, context-bas ed, and process-based evaluations can contribute valuable information to guide the developments in GIS technology and to facilitate efforts in GIS implementation in public and private organizations.