Esri Eastern Africa recognises that the development of a Geographic Information System in support of the strategic objectives of any organisation requires a formal GIS planning methodology. Best practices recommended and supported by Esri EA are:
Take ownership of your organisation’s planning process, which requires the approval of management and the involvement of all stakeholders. GIS consultants are only there to assist.
Plan with the outcome in mind starting with the strategic aims, through the information requirements to the data and GIS functions that are needed.
Conduct a needs assessment consisting of a functional requirements analysis, cost/benefit analysis, systems recommendations and/or strategic implementation plan.
Follow a phased development approach using rapid prototyping and pilot-studies before embarking on a full-scale implementation to limit risks and save costs.