A combination of digital mapping and database management, GIS enables government bodies and private enterprises to efficiently manage information with geographic connotations. It has been estimated that as much as 80% of local government information contains a geographic component, e.g. addresses, census tracts and blocks, land survey descriptions, object locations by Cartesian coordinates.
The Esri Partner Network (EPN) is a worldwide community of companies that develop and deliver cutting-edge geospatial solutions and services based on Esri® technology. Through collaboration, Esri and its partners support end users through successful geographic information system (GIS) implementations and repeatable solutions. PSBA has recently migrated from being an Esri business partner to being in the ESRI Partner Network at the Silver level.
PSBA’s partnership with Esri will ensure our GIS department is up to date with the latest releases of software. Our partnership also means we are trained on the latest software releases first. We will also have access to GIS resources that keeps us at the cutting edge of the GIS industry. This also means we have the full backing by Esri to support us in fulfilling our Customer’s needs.
PSBA has been working with GIS since 1992 and is well prepared to help clients with any of the following phases and applications.
PARCEL MAPPING
An accurate and useful record of property boundaries is one of the most dynamic GIS layers a County can have.
If not in existence, parcel layers must be created. To be useful, existing layers must be kept up to date using diligent maintenance.
PSBA has extensive experience in creating and maintaining GIS parcel layers using the most accurate methods.
Also, a number of licensed land surveyors are on hand to help with any complex boundary situation.
UTILITY MAPPING
Utilities in a GIS environment can be very beneficial to a municipality. PSBA can map water, wastewater, electrical and gas utilities.
Accessing the data in a digital environment that is geo-referenced to ortho-photography and other digital GIS data saves time and money.
PSBA has the capability and experience to convert CAD and hardcopy maps into a digital environment which can be incorporated into a GIS.
CONSULTING
Having a consultant available to guide and support you in your GIS endeavors is a very valuable asset.
PSBA’s GIS Department has extensive experience in the development and maintenance of comprehensive GIS projects. We can provide you with the guidance you need in order to make informed decisions concerning hardware, software, networking, and project design.
PSBA’s GIS Consultant Services can displace the need for a company or municipality to have an internal GIS organization.
DATA CONVERSION
PSBA has extensive experience with GIS data conversion.
For county-wide and municipal mapping, we can assist you in creating new data or converting and/or updating your existing GIS data as necessary, to complete and efficient and responsive system.
ARCGIS WEB DEVELOPMENT

Adams County, Illinois – Geographic Information System (http://www.co.adams.il.us/gis/)
PSBA can develop and maintain a web site using ArcGIS which provides a way to distribute GIS data and mapping services over the internet.
Users will have the ability to display, query, analyze and print data using their web browser.
Some of the most common applications for an ArcGIS site are operated by a county or municipality to disseminate their GIS data to multiple users which avoids the expense and learning of special software for each user.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
GIS is a most useful tool for marketing your community for commercial and residential growth.
Potential development sites can be made available to developers through the internet in a variety of ways. Maps for displays and correspondence provide powerful impact. They are easily created and shared in hard copy or digitally.
GIS combines all the geographic data needed to perform advanced analysis for future growth and planning.
NEEDS ASSESSMENT
As the first phase in a GIS project, an evaluation of the current resources and user needs will be evaluated. This will involve taking an inventory of existing GIS data, such as aerial photography, utilities location, and parcel mapping that can be converted to create a valuable Geographic Information System. The need for additional data and a plan for acquiring them will be determined.
The hardware and software requirements to support a useful, efficient GIS will be determined.
In consultation with the affected members of the organization, a plan will be prepared for training to be sure they can fully utilize the GIS by understanding its capabilities.
IMPLEMENTATION PLANS
Once the needs of the users are determined, the next step is to create a plan of action in order to implement the GIS to meet those needs.
PSBA’s GIS Department has the experience to create a cost effective and timely Implementation Plan.
We determine an appropriate schedule that fits into budgetary constraints, itemize projected costs, and recommend the course of action that will enable the client to create a GIS that is most suited for their needs.
TRAINING
When you have your new GIS up and running, you need to know how to use it. Our staff at PSBA are fluent in many of the current GIS software packages that are available. We can do on-site training at your location, or as a group at our Quincy office or we can recommend training courses offered through outside sources.