National Geospatial Advisory Committee Economic Recovery Subcommittee August 27, 2009

National Geospatial Advisory Committee Economic Recovery Subcommittee Purpose: To document lessons learned from our experience with lawmakers and decision makers during the drafting/passage of the American Recovery and Rehabilitation (ARRA) and to be better prepared for articulating the value of geospatial information as we address important challenges so our country can thrive in the 21st century. Current Status: Created as an ad hoc group in April 2009 Challenges:  Getting the attention of the right people who will speak openly and honestly  Getting people to think less about technology and more about impact on citizens and services  Obtaining better metrics to define Return on Investment  Reaching agreement among principles in this sector Interdependencies: Other Policy related Activities Next Steps:  Call committee together - 3rd week of April and Mid May  Get agreement on charter and direction  Develop draft work plan and assign tasks Team Members:  Jack Dangermond, John Paliatello, Jay Parrish, Tim Lowenstein, Randy Johnson, Kim Nelson; Chris Tucker, Don Ditmar, Zsolt Nagy, Michael Ritchie

National Geospatial Advisory Committee Lessons Learned Short timeframe for position development No common vision for multiple groups to rally around Disparate groups focused on disparate parts rather than focusing on national program Few authorize programs for Congress to quickly attach funding Too much focus on data rather than apps means it is difficult to articulate priorities Metrics do not exist for measuring need in priority areas

National Geospatial Advisory Committee Recommendations Eliminate Zero Sum Game Mentality Support Already Authorized Programs Support tactical steps while larger strategic National Geospatial Policy is under development Build common ground around a national geospatial base map

National Geospatial Advisory Committee Suggested Next Steps Endorse FGDC list of priority data sets: imagery; elevation; parcel and infrastructure; Work with Department to determine how the NGAC can offer advice on scoping of each data set; Collectively and individually support all efforts in the future to complete the four above-mentioned data sets; Encourage and assist the Department in developing strategies, including the use of social media, to develop the National Geospatial Policy. Actively engage in those discussions when scheduled. In the longer term, use the framework of a National Geospatial Policy for all decisions, communications and recommendations for prioritizing and funding geospatial activities.