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York County Receives Honors for Exceptional Work Using GIS Technology
San Diego, California— (http://www.esri.com/sag) On July 27, 2005, York County, South Carolina, will receive a 2005 Special Achievement in GIS award for its outstanding use of geographic information system (GIS) technology. ESRI, the world leader in GIS software, will present the award at the Twenty-fifth Annual ESRI International User Conference in San Diego, California, before thousands of GIS professionals. Out of more than 150,000 organizations worldwide, the winners of this award stood out for their exceptionally dedicated work and commitment.
“This award reflects the significant dedication and support these organizations provide to the people who depend on them,” says Jack Dangermond, ESRI president. “Each of the winners uses GIS technology to go beyond what is expected into the realm of excellence.”
GIS is a computer-based mapping tool that takes database information about a location, including streets, buildings, water features, and terrain, and turns it into visual layers. The ability to see and analyze geographic features on a map gives users a better understanding of a particular location, enabling planners, analysts, and others to make informed decisions about their communities, the environment, and businesses. This innovative technology brings countless benefits to the world through geography.
York County uses GIS technology to share important information and coordinate efforts with other government agencies. Data commonly shared among departments include property boundaries and land ownership information, streets, orthophotos, addressed structures, utility and sewer lines, crime mapping, and other information necessary for decision making. Information is shared through the county’s Web site, which is for county employees as well as the public. Using the Web site, data is accessed for maps that display different data. More advanced users can extract data and use the county’s files to make custom maps.
The county’s Web application answers questions that previously could only be answered by a telephone call or a visit to a government facility. Engineering and surveying organizations have access to a vast amount of much needed information. Overall, the benefits of the application extend beyond the county’s internal functions and into the surrounding communities.
It is with great pleasure that ESRI honors the Special Achievement in GIS award winners for their part in making a difference in communities around the world. They exhibit the innovation and commitment that lead to countless possibilities with GIS technology.
Other organizations being honored at the 2005 User Conference include Government of Botswana; Indiana University, Research Institute; National 4-H Headquarters, USDA; Dubai Electricity and Water Authority; Pacific Disaster Center; Chicago Police Department; Servicio Nacional de Geología y Minería, Chile; and Round River Conservation Studies.
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