Encouraging interoperability of geographical information systems
The Joint Research Centre (JRC) has recently published advance notice of a call for tenders for accompanying measures for the interoperability of geographical information systems. Despite the technology achievements of many EU-funded projects and progress in interoperable information technology, the lack of interoperability in geographical information (GI) and GI systems (GIS) is still an obstacle for its wider use. The JRC believes that GIS interoperable systems will open the doors to a whole new market and range of applications. The aim of the forthcoming call for tenders is to set up a series of accompanying measures to help improve the interoperability of geographical information systems in Europe, acting under a technology perspective. The accompanying measures targeted in this call aim: - To assess the technology progress in the area of interoperability of information systems in general and GIS in particular, placing in evidence and helping to leverage outstanding technical qualities of EU-derived projects; - To set up a showcase for the demonstration of project results with potential to contribute to the interoperability of GI and GIS systems; - To assess the feasibility and define a sustainability policy for the establishment of a GIS interoperability laboratory in Europe; - To catalyse technical discussions regarding GI/GIS interoperability and harmonising the interoperability strategy through discussions at technical forums, concertation meetings and a workshop. The work will be supervised by the Strategy and Systems for Space Applications Unit (SSSA) and the JRC. The call should be published before the end of August 1999. For further information, please contact: European Commission Joint Research Centre Strategy and Systems for Space Applications Unit TP 261 I-21020 Ispra (VA) Fax +39-0332-785461