Spatial Strategies in Organizations: Case Study Analysis

Keywords: GIS strategy, locational value, alignment, corporate social responsibility, case studies, competition
Session Type: Virtual Paper Abstract
Day: Saturday
Session Start / End Time: 2/26/2022 09:40 AM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) - 2/26/2022 11:00 AM (Eastern Time (US & Canada))
Room: Virtual 73

Abstract

Spatial strategy in organizations must weigh GIS versus other potential uses of funding and resources. In addition, GIS strategy must be aligned with organizational strategy. GIS strategic planning has the goal to identify how and why locational value can be achieved and how the organization can be more competitive or, sometimes, more cooperative. This includes leveraging location analytics to redesign business processes and sharing GIS maps with stakeholders to improve decision-making. Many spatial plans also include corporate social responsibility as a goal that provides societal value, such as helping the underserved through locational knowledge.
This research performed in-depth case analysis of five enterprises to determine the extent of GIS strategy, strategy alignment, and problems encountered and achievements with spatial strategies. Case methodology included structured interviews, transcription, triangulation, and extraction of key findings. For each case, the manager responsible for GIS in the organization was interviewed.
One case example is RapidSOS, a start-up that provides free spatially referenced social media information to enhance field effectiveness of emergency workers. Location intelligence is aligned with firm’s business model. The spatial strategy creates monetary value through enhanced services that can be added on to help the emergency centers. It is competitive as the first national provider of this service, while it is also collaborative by sharing services with several large spatially oriented businesses. At the same time, the GIS strategy includes establishment of long-term relationships with leading digital data providers.
Case findings are summarized and conclusions drawn on the best practices of spatial strategy.