Sdi in Two Diverse Contexts – Aceh & Australia: Differences & Similarities

The use of spatial information in Aceh post-tsunami was driven by local practitioners and NGOs working on recovery projects, supported by the Spatial Information & Mapping Centre (SIM-Centre) based at the Bureau of Reconstruction & Rehabilitation (BRR). Initially directed to supporting recovery activities, the focus later turned to building capacity within local government agencies. A strategy for effectively using spatial information and technology throughout the province was developed. Fundamental to the strategy and for whole-of-government planning and operational support was the establishment of a spatial data infrastructure (SDI).In Australia, the development of a national spatial data infrastructure (NSDI) has been on the agenda for a number of years. However, despite appropriate technology being available, implementation to date has been restricted to projects driven by State Government Departments and to those in specific domains (for example Water Resources).This paper reviews a successful SDI implementation at Landgate in Western Australia and compares it to the process of establishing the Aceh SDI. Lessons learned from both contexts are applicable for many countries.