A 10 Years Review and Classification of the Geographic Information Systems Impact Literature (1998-2008)

Abstract

Our objective in this paper is to review the literature on the impact of geographic information systems (GIS) in governmental and non-governmental organizations by analyzing 53 articles published between 1998 and 2008. The impacts of GIS are categorized in a taxonomy which designates GIS contributions to efficiency, effectiveness and societal well-being. According to this taxonomy, 38 articles are examined in-depth and their results reported. The focus of GIS impact research efforts in terms of research philosophies, methodologies and geographic focus is also presented. We suggest that the appropriate use of theories, concepts and testing of existing GIS evaluation frameworks could serve as building blocks for more rigorous studies on the impact of GIS, including Land Information Systems (LIS) and Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI).