On November 15, 2023, people worldwide will observe GIS Day, a special day dedicated to celebrating Geographic Information Systems (GIS). GIS is a toolkit that helps us keep records, create maps, and analyze information by using technology that’s based on location. It’s a system that lets us see, understand, and work with data in a spatial context. 

On October 31, Minnesota’s Geospatial Information Office (MnGeo) and Governor Tim Walz gathered state leaders to share opportunities for using geospatial tools to take on our biggest challenges in state government. The group welcomed esteemed GIS innovator Jack Dangermond, who shared his vision for how state agencies can use GIS to solve real world issues facing Minnesota communities.

As a former geography teacher, Governor Walz recognizes the value of using GIS to drive informed decisions and to track and report progress toward state goals and initiatives and has therefore proclaimed Wednesday, November 15, 2023, as Geographic Information Systems Day in the State of Minnesota.

Supplementing existing data with geographic information can create context that helps us make decisions that affect our communities. For example, mapping out which neighborhoods have the most cars towed during snow emergencies can help us change how we alert Minnesotans and potentially guide decisions about future construction projects.

Minnesota Geographic Information Officer and Director of the Minnesota Geospatial Information Office (MnGeo), Alison Slaats, also addressed the group to speak about MnGeo and available geospatial resources that can help state agencies use GIS in their operations.

The meeting closed with a panel moderated by Minnesota IT Services Commissioner Tarek Tomes and included panelists Walz, Dangermond, Slaats, and Minnesota Department of Health's Chief Data Strategist, Chris Brueske. Attendees left the event with a renewed sense of how GIS can help them meet agency goals.