Geographic Information System (GIS) as a Decision-Making Tool

A 3.5 hours workshop titled "Geographic Information System (GIS) as a Decision-Making Tool" was conducted for participants of 47^th MCMC at NIPA Lahore on August 6, 2026 by Dr. Urooj Saeed, Senior GIS Specialist, Urban Unit, and Dr. Danish Raza, GIS & Image Analysis Expert, Urban Unit. The workshop focused on application of GIS for effective governance and evidence-based decision making. The guest speakers introduced key GIS concepts and explained how spatial data and analysis can support policy planning, resource allocation and improved public service delivery. Practical applications of GIS across different government sectors were discussed, including demographic and parcel-level mapping, land and development planning, health and education management, environmental governance, disaster and flood management, and identification of service delivery gaps. The participants were also introduced to different dashboards and information systems and their utility in transforming spatial and administrative data into actionable information for decision-makers. A key feature of the workshop was its interactive approach whereby participants undertook group work based on case studies to apply GIS concepts to governance and public policy issues. The groups subsequently presented their findings and proposed solutions followed by discussion and feedback from resource persons. The workshop concluded by emphasizing the importance of integrating GIS, spatial data and digital dashboards into government planning and decision-making processes for more targeted, efficient, and responsive public service delivery. The session ended with a vote of thanks to guest speakers by Sponsor DS.