6-4 Reasons for an Unsuccessful GIS

These are the following six major reasons that may lead to a unsuccessful GIS.

Lack of Vision
The objectives, targets and goals of a GIS project were not definded by the top manager, who just purchased GIS hardware and software only by the name of GIS. In such case, a GIS is only a toy for the top manager.

Lack of Long Term Planning
One should note that GIS projects are long term projects that run for about ten years at least. The budget for version up and updating the database is sometimes not prepared, and as such cannot keep the GIS project running.

Lack of Support by Decsion Makers
On some occasion, the top manager in charge of GIS is replaced by an other person who is not very supportive to the GIS project.

Lack of System Analysis
Digital approach with GIS in replacement of the existing analog approach based on manual works is sometimes not acceptable in the existing conventional system. The restructuring of the organizationo and reducation/restraining is not implemented.

Lack of Expertise
Imprper selection and misuse of GIS hardware and software very often occur due to lack of experstise. Professional consultants or experts should be invited to evaluate the plan.

Lack of Access for User’s
There would be very few user if the training for users is not well organized and not provided with a well organized manual. Sometimes users are not responsible after the installation as they did not participate in the project at the initial stage.

Figure 6.4 Shows the six reasons for unsuccessful GIS.