‹ back to GIS Glossary

Community Mapping Projects

Definition

Community Mapping Projects involve collaborative GIS-based efforts where residents participate in creating maps of their neighborhoods, environments, or issues of concern. These projects promote empowerment, transparency, and locally-driven data collection and visualization.

Application

Widely used in informal settlement mapping, urban upgrading, disaster risk reduction, land rights documentation, and infrastructure development. Community members gather GPS points, sketch maps, and share local knowledge that is digitized in GIS platforms.

FAQ

1. What is the goal of community mapping projects?

To give communities a voice in spatial decision-making and create accurate, locally-informed maps for advocacy and development.

2. What is the goal of community mapping projects?

Mobile GIS apps, paper sketching, participatory GIS platforms, drones, and handheld GPS devices.

3. What is the goal of community mapping projects?

Challenges include digital literacy, data validation, and ensuring long-term support and integration with formal planning.

4. What is the goal of community mapping projects?

NGOs, universities, local governments, and advocacy groups often organize and support these participatory mapping efforts.