Aurora, Colo.
– At its recent meeting
in May, the GITA Board of Directors approved a plan that will allow the
association to continue to provide services to the geospatial industry as a
volunteer organization. GITA staff will continue as full time employees until
the end of June.
“Reorganizing the association was a necessary
response to declining conference attendance and membership over the last
several years,” said Bob Samborski, executive director of GITA. “Economic
constraints in our members’ organizations certainly had an effect, but the fact
is that there are many mature users out there that have been successfully
employing geospatial technology for decades now. The need for education has
definitely changed. Also, there are nearly limitless sources for this
information.”
“We will transition to a new business model that is less dependent on
conferences, and includes new ways for individuals and
organizations to participate and gain benefit,” said Samborski. “We anticipate
moving toward more virtual events like webinars as we move away from a
dependence on large physical events. The goal is to make more content and
learning available online. We are seeking more participation from volunteers as
we transition to our new model.”
Most importantly,
says Samborski, “GITA will continue as a non-profit association with chapters
and international affiliates. Members will continue to receive benefits.”
The GITA News Hub weekly newsletter will continue to
provide timely news and best practices to its more than 18,000 recipients.
Through partnerships with other organizations, GITA will continue to support
certification, provide members GISP points and represent the industry on
influential bodies such as the National Geospatial Advisory Council
(NGAC).
GITA Transitions to New Business Model
June 15, 2012
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