Free resource includes more than 70 use cases of geographic information systems in addressing municipal challenges

Esri Canada today announced the release of GIS Playbook for Local Government Leaders, a free e-book designed to inspire and motivate leaders in addressing their community's most pressing problems by harnessing geographic information system (GIS) technology. GIS enables the geographic approach, which involves understanding and solving real-world problems  through mapping and location-based data analysis.

"The possibilities for applying GIS in local government are immense," says Matthew Lewin, director, strategic advisory services, Esri Canada and the e-book's lead author.  "This playbook is a good primer for those looking to expand its use, integrate the geographic approach into their workflows and inspire data-driven innovation in their organization."

The playbook covers a wide range of the most important community issues, including:

• Public Health and Safety
• Housing
• Climate Change and Sustainability
• Economic Recovery and Growth
• Infrastructure and Transportation
• Education and Workforce Development
• Equity and Social Justice
• Governance and Transparency

Written by Esri Canada's team of management consulting experts, the playbook breaks down the critical challenges organizations face and looks at how through a geospatial lens organizations can accelerate their actions and improve the quality of life within their communities.

Municipal leaders and urban planners can glean inspiration from curated Canadian case studies, including how City of Ottawa improved planning and communication processes through a digital twin; how City of Abbotsford enhanced service delivery for people experiencing homelessness using a GIS app; and how cities across Canada including Calgary, Toronto and Victoria have implemented easy-to-use rooftop solar potential calculators using GIS and remote sensing data to accelerate solar adoption and sustainability goals.

Available in English and French, the playbook also provides practical considerations when implementing GIS-based solutions to ensure readers consider the process, data and ethical concerns, in addition to technical constraints. It serves as a guide for understanding how GIS can empower communities to build a more resilient, equitable and thriving future.

Download a free copy of GIS Playbook for Local Government Leaders

About Esri Canada 
Founded in 1984, Esri Canada provides geographic information system (GIS) solutions that empower people in business, government, and education to make informed and timely decisions by leveraging the power of mapping and spatial analytics. These solutions enable organizations to better manage their resources, plan their future and collaborate within and beyond their organization. Esri Canada's products and services help advance successful digital transformation. The company serves more than 14,000 organizations from 13 offices across Canada and is based in Toronto. Esri Canada has been recognized as one of Canada's Best Managed Companies for 12 consecutive years. More information can be found at esri.ca. Follow Esri Canada on X (Twitter), Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and LinkedIn.