There is the GIS world that is largely managing authoritative data sources, supporting geocentric workflows like fixing roads, making cities more livable through better planning, environmental management, forest management, drilling in the right location for oil, managing assets and utilities.

In this quote, Jack Dangermond outlines the broad range of applications for Geographic Information Systems (GIS), highlighting how it is used to manage authoritative data sources and support a variety of geocentric workflows. These workflows are processes that involve geographic locations and spatial data, such as fixing roads, improving urban planning to make cities more livable, and environmental management. The mention of forest management and oil drilling also shows how GIS helps in optimizing land use and resource extraction, ensuring decisions are based on accurate geographic data.

Dangermond emphasizes the role of GIS in supporting a wide array of sectors, from urban development to resource management. The technology is vital for asset management, helping industries track and maintain utilities and infrastructure, as well as make informed decisions about land use. By providing spatial insights, GIS enables more effective management and sustainability in everything from city planning to natural resource extraction. This speaks to the growing role of data-driven decision-making in addressing global challenges, both environmental and urban.

The origin of this quote comes from Dangermond’s work as the co-founder of Esri, a leading company in the GIS industry. With his deep expertise in geospatial technology, Dangermond has been instrumental in advancing the use of GIS in numerous fields, promoting its application for better decision-making, planning, and resource management. His focus on GIS as a tool for improving efficiency and sustainability reflects its increasing relevance in addressing modern challenges in urban development, environmental conservation, and resource management.

Ultimately, Dangermond’s words underscore the versatility and importance of GIS in the modern world. By managing vast amounts of geospatial data and supporting informed decision-making, GIS has become an essential tool in making cities smarter, managing natural resources more sustainably, and ensuring that industries operate efficiently and responsibly.