USG^SMProvides Training Opportunity to its Members

USG^SM hosted a two day class entitled “Getting More Out of your GIS” on December 10^th and 11^th, 2003.  The class was offered to its members to help them use their GIS systems more efficiently. The class covered areas in both the use of Microsoft Access and using a personal geodatabase (such as ESRI’s ArcMap) and was intended to encompass several levels of knowledge and learning.

Day one of the class was taught by USG’s Leader of Software Development, Richard Isle. This day addressed topics on how to use Microsoft Access efficiently and effectively.  From covering the basics (what is a table?) to adding security to a database and everything in between, the attendees had their hands full with trying to take in as much information they could in the time allotted. Practical exercises that concentrated on real world solutions were used. Attendees used the databases that are typical to most cooperatives. Exercises that illustrated the use of CIS systems, ESRI’s GIS system and Hunt Technologies Turtleware database to solve common data problems were used. Course materials covered how to use your data to generate your SADI, SAFI and CADI indices and where to find this information.

Day Two covered using personal geodatabases and was taught by Joe Buttweiler, a GIS Technician at USG^SM. Using ESRI’s technology for demonstration purposes, this day brought subjects similar to day one but focused on using ArcGIS instead of Microsoft Access.  Like the day before, some basics had to be covered before getting to the meat of the class.  After basic terminology and comparisons with Microsoft Access, items including linking data and ArcGIS outputs were taught. Topics covered were not limited to the GIS but also included how to tie other data sources to their GIS system. Power fails from the Turtle System relate to the CIS and other sources was covered. The course also covered the use of ArcReader as a “portable” solution that allows, through a simple process, the capability for quick updates and fast data delivery.

Joe Buttweiler instructing the use of a personal geodatabase.