GIS and Data

GIS

GIS 101

In the most general sense, a GIS (Geographic Information System) is any system for storing, analyzing, and visualizing geographic information. In modern usage, however, the term specifically refers to a computerized system that allows a user to conduct detailed spatial analyses, visualize proximity and location, and produce maps that cover literally any spatial extent and can act as a powerful tool for any and all planning purposes.

SRPC and GIS

With mapping and spatial analytics being critical tools in the planning world, SRPC leverages a suite of current software packages to reliably inform our clients and stakeholders. We use ESRI's ArcGIS software for the majority of our GIS work, augmented with a variety of extensions and software packages that complement that software. Analyses are varied and our maps cover a broad range of topics, but for a reasonable start on what we can do, please see our "Mapping & GIS Services" page.

Similarly, SRPC maintains a variety of computerized hardware that enables us to run our software packages and provide hardcopy maps in a variety of sizes ranging from 8 ½ x 11 inches (Letter) to large format 36 x 48 inches (Architectural D). For more information on our software and hardware capabilities, please see our "Mapping & GIS Services" page.

ArcGIS Online

ArcGIS Online is a cloud-based version of ArcGIS that allows members of an organization to create, share, and access maps collaboratively. SRPC is currently in the process of setting up our ArcGIS online platform in order to allow us to share maps easily with communities and stakeholders, and even allow them to create their own maps. To access the self-service section of our ArcGIS Online system, please see our "Self-service Online Mapping" page.. For online examples of some of our previous work, please see our map gallery here.

Data

SRPC, as a Regional Planning Commission and a Metropolitan Planning Organization, collects, and analyzes data for many different projects and planning purposes.

Data Collection

Culvert Assessments 

SRPC's major data collection efforts are a component of the Statewide Asset Data Management System (SADES). The culvert assessment process, which utilizes the summer interns to complete field work, focuses on collecting information related to culvert stream crossings. All work follows standardized protocols developed collaboratively by the UNH Technology Transfer Center, NHDES, and NHDOT. The data are submitted to the Technology Transfer (T2) Center at UNH to be uploaded to a database that is reviewed for quality assurance and control by the NH Department of Environmental Services and the NH Department of Transportation. Learn more here. (LINK HERE)

Traffic Counts

Strafford Metropolitan Planning Organization (SMPO) also utilizes interns to complete traffic counts during the summer field work season. These counts are set by Strafford MPO for NH DOT. In addition, SMPO often sets supplemental traffic counts for communities by request. Quality control and quality assurance is completed by both Strafford MPO and NHDOT.

Census Data 

For several decades. Strafford Regional Planning Commission has partnered with the U.S. Census Bureau to ensure that the most accurate data are collected and reported. As a U.S. Census partner, SRPC offers technical assistance related with encouraging citizens to submit data, in addition to any other assistance as requested by the Census Bureau. 

Data Analysis

Strafford Regional Planning Commission and Metropolitan Planning Organization has access to a variety of databases from which we can pull and analyze information aggregated to a variety of levels (i.e. census tract, census block group, county subdivision, etc.). This information can also be presented using GIS and in other reporting formats.