How do you discuss GIS data limitations with stakeholders?

1 Define GIS data limitations

Before you discuss GIS data limitations with your stakeholders, you need to define what they are and why they matter. GIS data limitations are any factors that reduce the quality, accuracy, or completeness of spatial data or analysis. They can arise from various sources, such as data collection methods, measurement errors, data processing techniques, data integration issues, data representation choices, or data analysis assumptions. These limitations can affect the spatial accuracy, attribute accuracy, logical consistency, temporal accuracy, or thematic accuracy of GIS data or analysis. They can also influence the interpretation, comparison, and generalization of spatial information and results.

2 Identify GIS data limitations

Once you have defined GIS data limitations, you need to identify them for your specific project or task. You can use various methods and tools to assess and document the quality and accuracy of your GIS data or analysis, such as metadata, data quality reports, error matrices, accuracy assessments, sensitivity analyses, or uncertainty analyses. You should also consider the context and purpose of your project or task, and how the GIS data or analysis will be used by your stakeholders. This will help you determine the relevance and significance of the GIS data limitations for your project or task.

3 Explain GIS data limitations

After you have identified the GIS data limitations for your project or task, you need to explain them to your stakeholders in a clear and concise way. You should avoid using jargon or technical terms that your stakeholders may not understand, and instead use plain language and examples to illustrate the concepts and implications of the GIS data limitations. You should also use visual aids, such as maps, charts, graphs, or tables, to show the spatial distribution, magnitude, or impact of the GIS data limitations. You should also acknowledge the sources and references of the GIS data or analysis, and provide citations or links to the relevant documentation or information.

4 Address GIS data limitations

Besides explaining the GIS data limitations to your stakeholders, you also need to address them in a constructive and proactive way. You should not ignore or dismiss the GIS data limitations, or use them as an excuse for poor performance or outcomes. Instead, you should show how you have taken steps to minimize, mitigate, or overcome the GIS data limitations, such as using quality control procedures, applying appropriate methods or techniques, selecting suitable data sources or formats, or adjusting the scope or scale of the project or task. You should also highlight the strengths and benefits of your GIS data or analysis, and how they can help your stakeholders achieve their goals or objectives.

5 Involve GIS data limitations

Finally, you should involve your stakeholders in the discussion and evaluation of the GIS data limitations. You should not present the GIS data limitations as a one-way or final information, but rather as a starting point or an opportunity for dialogue and feedback. You should encourage your stakeholders to ask questions, share their opinions, express their concerns, or suggest their ideas about the GIS data limitations. You should also listen to their perspectives, expectations, and needs, and try to address them in a respectful and collaborative way. You should also seek their input, feedback, or approval on the GIS data or analysis, and how they can be improved or used.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?