ASPRS issues new strategic plan for organization

As with many of the organizations that address geographic information technology, ASPRS is recasting itself to be a more inclusive body or professionals.The organization uses a tagline of "The Imaging and Geospatial Information Society," a phase similar to that used by the Geospatial Information and Technology Association (GITA).Dr.Terry Keating, President-elect of ASPRS, and president of Lucerne International said that, "The (ASPRS) Board wants current and prospective members to know what ASPRS views is important for our profession.We intend to encourage the activities of regions, divisions, and committees to follow the plan and adopt action items consistent with the plan."

Don Lauer, vice president of ASPRS and former director of the USGS's EROS Data Center commented that, "This plan does not alter the direction of the Society.Instead, it helps provide focus to the Society's new vision as the nation's imaging and geospatial information society."

The primary goals and objectives of the new plan include the following:

1. Enhance awareness and use of imaging and geospatial information and systems
2. Enhance the strength and value of ASPRS publications
3. Provide objective scientific insight affecting U.S.and international geospatial policy
4. Proactively develop standards and guidelines for emerging technologies
5. Strengthen ASPRS student programs
6. Actively promote certification and appropriate licensing
7. Foster communications among ASPRS members, its constituencies, and partners
8. Expand and diversify educational opportunities
9. Ensure continued organizational strength and financial stability
10. Expand ASPRS membership

Dr.Keating further emphasized that, "we want ASPRS members to be aware that ASPRS intends to serve our profession in several important areas.As the plan indicates, some important areas include: providing insight affecting US geospatial policy; providing standards for emerging sensors and technologies; promoting certification and appropriate licensing; expanding educational activities; strengthening membership; and staying financially healthy.My personal priorities have been to develop a lasting strategic planning process, to keep ASPRS responsive to the adoption of new technologies for the geospatial community, to maintain and grow strong educational programs for certification and licensing, keep the private mapping industry strong, and to provide guidance and leadership to geospatial policymakers worldwide."

The ASPRS plan can be downloaded from http://www.asprs.org/society.html

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