Complexities in GIS Construction and Spatial Knowledge Production in Dane County, Wisconsin

摘要

The process of GIS spatial knowledge production within planning organizations is quite complex. Drawing from implementation and diffusion studies and GIS and Society literature, this study aims to examine GIS construction by Dane County in Wisconsin as a process that is shaped by the societal mores, institutional norms, and political conditions, as well as the internal organizational environment. This article specifically focuses on the role of the LIO (Land Information Office) that acts as the central coordinator of GIS activities in Dane County. This study examines the implications of establishing a central GIS unit on the overall GIS functions of Dane County. It also explores the role of external contextual factors beyond the confines of an organization that: shape the role of the LIO office as the central GIS coordinator and its repercussions on the county's overall GIS and spatial knowledge production. We contend that an organization's GIS spatial knowledge production is shaped by the internal and external contextual environment, especially the political atmosphere and representation of departments or department heads requiring GIS assistance which in turn influence inter- departmental dissemination of GIS and spatial technologies.