Cities and towns across the state are using their AWC GIS Consortium memberships to solve problems and improve service delivery to residents. Five of the most popular ways members use the services available are:

• GIS needs assessments
  A GIS needs assessment is a great tool for communities getting started with GIS or for communities that want to make better use of their spatial data and GIS tools. A rapid GIS needs assessment comes free with all levels of AWC GIS Consortium membership.
• Utility asset management
  Conversion from an outdated utility asset management system to an industry-standard one based on GIS can be daunting, but cities and towns can see an immediate return on investment through better utility asset management.
• Open data portals
  Open data portals are a great way for cities to capitalize on GIS tools for storing, managing, and sharing data. Data portals also offer a self-serve option for organizations who are providing GIS data to their communities.
• StoryMaps
  StoryMaps (a tool that comes free with the Esri ArcGIS Online account that most cities and towns already have) are great for showcasing data-heavy community success stories. AWC produces many StoryMaps to showcase important topics for Washington communities. Explore them here.
• Mapping utility assets in the field
  Using tablets and digital mapping software makes utility mapping and tracking workflows efficient and can mean big-time cost savings for public works departments. AWC GIS Consortium members are using their program service hours to implement or improve these workflows.

Interested in learning more about the AWC GIS Consortium? Visit here for program details, or email gis@awcnet.org to schedule a call to discuss how the GIS Consortium will benefit your community.