Interoperability of geographical information systems
The European Commission's Joint Research Centre has issued an invitation to tender for the provision of measures that will encourage the interoperability of geographical information systems (GIS) in Europe. The Geographical Information Systems project is part of the Space Applications Institute (SAI) aimed at enhancing Europe's position in the geographical information systems market. A further objective is to foster the use of European geographical information (GI) data through the harmonisation of GI data and interoperability of GI systems. The present call aims to set a system of accompanying measures which will improve the interoperability of geographical information systems in Europe within a technology perspective. The measures targeted in this call include assessing technological advances in the area of interoperability of information systems in general and GIS in particular; setting up a showcase for the demonstration of project results with enough potential to contribute to the interoperability of GI and GIS; assessing the feasibility and defining a sustainability policy for the establishment of a GIS interoperability laboratory in Europe; catalysing technical discussions regarding GI/GIS interoperability and harmonising the interoperability strategy through discussion at technical forums, concertation meetings and a workshop; helping disseminate the technical excellence of European projects related with GI/GIS interoperability through the creation of a GIS interoperability information service. The tenderer must have a full understanding of the issues associated with the interoperability of information systems, in particular GI and GIS, with experience and contacts in these fields. The activities will be carried out in close cooperation with a Commission scientific officer. The work is divided into a set of five packages to be developed in two phases, and the Commission reserves the right to suspend the second phase following an assessment of the first. For further information please contact: European Commission Joint Research Centre Mr P. Churchill TP 261 I-21020 Ispra (VA) Tel +39-0332-785425; Fax +39-0332-785461 E-mail: sssa.helpdesk@jrc.it