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Exemplary Systems in Geospatial Awards

exemplary systems in geospatial awards

Recognizing Extraordinary Achievement in the Use of Geospatial Technologies

The EXEMPLARY SYSTEMS IN GEOSPATIAL AWARDS, inaugurated in 1980 (as the Exemplary Systems in Government Awards) by the Urban and Regional Information Systems Association, recognize extraordinary achievement by organizations in the use of geospatial systems and technologies. This achievement is defined as the effective application of technology that can be measured in terms of improved services and increased benefits to citizens or customers.

With URISA's rebrand to the Geospatial Professional Network, this award is no longer only limited to governmental organizations. Please consider applying no matter your organization type.

Submissions are invited in two categories:

Single Process Systems

Systems in this category are outstanding and working examples of applying geospatial technology to automate a specific SINGLE process or operation involving one department or sub-unit of an organization. The system application results in extended and/or improved services that are more efficient and/or save money.

Enterprise Systems

Systems in this category are outstanding and working examples of using geospatial technology in a multi-department environment as part of an integrated process. These systems exemplify effective use of technology yielding widespread improvements in the process(es) and/or service(s) involved and/or cost savings to the organization.

If you’ve successfully improved the way in which your organization operates through the use of geospatial information technology, consider applying for a GPN ESIG™ Award. The application requirements are rigorous ( Application & Submission Details) and you are encouraged to begin the process early. Refer to this document to keep your submission on track.

The submission window has closed for 2025. Note that June 1, 2026 will be the deadline for next year's submissions.

Winning systems will be celebrated at GIS-Pro in the Rockies 2025 in Denver, in October.

GPN's free Excellence in GIS webinar series showcased last year's winning systems. Webinar recordings are accessible here.

“Receiving the ESIG Award gave us a valuable platform to showcase our work and increase the visibility of GIS. It provided an opportunity to produce a video featured on both the GPN and City of Plano's website, effectively highlighting how GIS supports our organization and benefits the community. The recognition not only elevated awareness among staff and citizens, but also underscored the value of GIS in local government. We’re truly grateful for the opportunity to share our story.” - Kristina Deitz, GISP City of Plano, Texas - 2022 Enterprise System Category - Distinguished System Winner

Scroll down to learn more about recent ESIG Award winners below.

Awards History & StoryMap

2025 Winning Systems

Press: 2025 GPN Exemplary Systems in Geospatial Award Winners Announced

Single Process Systems

Winner: King County GIS Center/Seattle, Washington: King County AI-GIS-Strengthened State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Response Letter Generator
Submitted by: Tamara Davis, King County Chief Technology Officer, King County, Seattle, Washington
Distinguished System: City of Plano, Texas: Zoning Case Response solution
Submitted by: Kristina Deitz, GIS Analyst III, City of Plano, Texas

Enterprise Systems

Winner: City of Columbus, Ohio - Department of Public Service: Closed Lanes Or Steel-plate Events (CLOSE) Program
Submitted by: Kimberly Baillieul, Data Solutions Manager – Department of Public Service, City of Columbus, Ohio
Distinguished System: City of Midland, Texas: Council Dashboard
Submitted by: Richard M. Osuamkpe, GIS Manager, City of Midland, Texas