How GIS Works in King County
A simple model of how GIS technology is implemented by local government
agencies describes two basic scenarios. In one scenario, the technology
is introduced at the staff level, where motivated staff members pursue
GIS to improve and refine their own business processes. This can be
termed the "grassroots" or bottom-up approach. By this method, the use
of GIS technology within an organization often grows from multiple
kernels of innovation. In the other scenario, GIS technology is brought
into an agency under the directive of a high-ranking executive, such as
a department director or elected official. This can be termed the
"champion" or top-down approach, where a mandate is given to use GIS to
replace outmoded business practices.