National Academies advisory: Assessing geographic information science

Rapid technological change in the past three decades has had a significant impact on the mapping sciences. As geographic information systems (GIS) have come into wide use, demand for a work force well-trained in these systems has grown exponentially, putting strain on educational programs in this field. BEYOND MAPPING: MEETING NATIONAL NEEDS THROUGH ENHANCED GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE, new from the National Academies' National Research Council, examines the state of the mapping sciences and offers recommendations to build on progress in this discipline. Advance copies will be available to reporters only beginning at 11 a.m. EDT on Wednesday, June 28. THE REPORT IS EMBARGOED AND NOT FOR PUBLIC RELEASE BEFORE 11 A.M. EDT ON JUNE 29. Reporters who wish to obtain a copy of the report should contact the Office of News and Public Information at tel. 202-334-2138 or e-mail news@nas.edu.