In line with trends countrywide, the KwaZulu-Natal branch of Computer Foundation is experiencing a growing requirement for spatial information systems among organisations in the province. Janusha Beharee, Computer Foundation's KwaZulu-Natal Branch Manager, believes the growing ease-of-use of geographical information system (GIS) technology is behind the increasing demand for Autodesk's PC-based GIS solutions in the region.

In particular, MapGuide, Autodesk's highly sophisticated software tool for map distribution across the Internet and intranets, is receiving a high level of interest from users, currently concentrated mainly among government and parastatal organisations. "We have seen a major increase in enquiries over the past six months from companies wishing to introduce a spatial element into their management information systems," she says. A major contributor to its increasing use is the availability of data from sources including the Office of the Surveyor General and the Department of Central Statistical Services. "Companies need no longer be burdened by the task of collecting and validating base data which has created a radical new dimension to GIS," Janusha explains.

Because the data is now available over the counter (and directly from Computer Foundation) a large percentage of the work involved in setting up a GIS system is already completed. "After that, there only remains to input industry - or company-specific information - and we have the skills to assist users with this."

Computer Foundation has embarked on an education drive to introduce more people to the benefits of GIS. "For example, there are a host of CAD users in Natal and we want to show them that it is a short step to migrate from CAD to a full-fledged GIS." With four full-time staff members and the help of various contractors, as well as a presence in Pietermaritzburg, the KwaZulu-Natal branch of Computer Foundation is offering a full range of services to users in the region. This includes projects and consultancy services, support, data brokery as well as data capture bureau services.

The branch is furthermore able to call on the skills of the more than 150 full-time GIS consultants at Computer Foundation's head office in Centurion, should this be required. Training is also offered while a strong User Group acts as an important vehicle for communication between Computer Foundation and the Autodesk GIS user community in the province.

Computer Foundation

(031) 207 9224

(012) 672 0100

janushab@cf.co.za