A full week of URISA sessions began Monday, 25 August. 
Photo by Lennon Christian (GIS)

The management and application of geographic information is the topic of discussions in Grand Cayman this week, under the theme “Evolution and Next Steps”.

Delegates from the Caribbean, US and UK were expected to participate in the Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (URISA) Caribbean Conference from 25-29 August.

Among the topics discussed will be aerial imaging, mapping, system design and development, regional collaboration, defining property boundaries and land registration.

The Cayman Islands’ Lands and Survey Department/Cayman Land Info is hosting this year’s event. Leader of Government Business Hon Kurt Tibbetts will attend the opening ceremony today, 27 August, at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman.

The keynote address is being given by Dr David Maguire, chief scientist from Environmental Systems Research Institute – the world’s leading GIS software and solutions provider.

This is the fourth such meeting of minds, and it is focusing on the effective application of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and other information technologies that affect a range of users in the region and worldwide. Plenary sessions and special presentations are taking place each day.

The week includes networking, social events and opportunities for the visitors to experience local hospitality.

“This year’s event promises to be one of the most comprehensive events of its type to be held in the Caribbean,” said Conference Chairman Alan Jones, who also is Director of Lands and Survey.

“As conference hosts, the Cayman Islands Government and Cayman Land Info are pleased to support URISA in bringing together GIS professionals from around the region and further afield.”

Participants represent Caribbean countries including Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Guyana, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Cuba, as well the US, Canada and the UK. There are also exhibition booths featuring the latest in related technology and applications.

In addition to Cayman Land Info, sponsors include International Land Systems, HP/KirkISS, RE/MAX, the Cayman Islands Real Estate Brokers Association, Cayman National Bank, Scotia Bank and exclusive telecoms sponsor Digicel, as well as a range of related organisations from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.