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Thinking Outside the Polygon – The Canadian Spatial
Data Infrastructure Experience
Abstract
Map World Forum 2009
James Ikkers
SENIOR ADVISOR - INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
NATURAL RESOURCES CANADA
CANADA
James.Ikkers@NRCan-RNCan.gc.ca
Abstract
The developments in information technology over the past several decades have made both the access to
and the need for geospatial information expand exponentially. In 1999, the Government of Canada
recognized this new environment and invested in a national partnership initiative to improve access to
geospatial information over the Internet. This initiative, known as GeoConnections, was led by Natural
Resources Canada and was mandated to accelerate the development of a Canadian Geospatial Data
Infrastructure (CGDI). It is important to realize where the GeoConnections program came from. The
Canadian digital mapping experience is reviewed; from the initiatives of the National Topographic Database
and the Canadian Geographic Information System in the 1960’s to the level of technical maturity of
today’s Canadian Geospatial Data Infrastructure. Current key principles of the CGDI are outlined in the
context of its approach to meet Canadian priorities of public safety and security, public health, environment
and sustainable development and matters of importance to Canada’s First Nations. Finally, the
significant achievements of the GeoConnections Program since its inception are outlined, with a review
of lessons learned, benefits realized and a vision of the long term sustainability of the CGDI to meet the
needs of Canadians and the International Geospatial Community.
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