Survey and Mapping Department Kicks Off Enterprise GIS and Geo Database Restructuring Initiative

PRESS RELEASE

 FROM THE Department of Survey and Mapping

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – The Department of Survey and Mapping has officially kicked off a transformative initiative to modernise the Turks and Caicos Islands Government’s spatial data infrastructure through the development of an Enterprise Geographic Information System (GIS) and the restructuring of its geo-database. This project is being led by Acting Director Mr. Demarco Williams in collaboration with Spatial Innovation Ltd., the consulting firm engaged to deploy the ArcGIS Enterprise Solution. This transformative project aims to enhance data sharing and collaboration among government departments, ultimately improving service delivery to the community.

From June 16-20, 2025, the project team, including consultants from Spatial Innovation Ltd. conducted a fact-finding and needs assessment mission. The purpose of this initial mission was to assess the current IT infrastructure, existing GIS workflows, data management practices, and institutional capacity for spatial data governance. The assessment also focused on identifying interdepartmental data needs, integration opportunities, and priorities for system design.

During the mission, consultations were held with over 12 key government departments, including Land Registry, Crown Land Unit, Department of Environment & Coastal Resource, Planning Department, Department of Statistics, and others. These engagements provided valuable insight into the existing challenges and opportunities for improved collaboration, data sharing, and spatial analysis across government functions.

“Geographical Information Systems technology has the potential to revolutionise how we operate as a government,” said Acting Director Demarco Williams. “By restructuring our geo database and creating an enterprise GIS, we are laying the groundwork for improved decision-making, resource allocation, and service delivery. This initiative will benefit not only government agencies but also the communities we serve.”

Once implemented, the new Enterprise GIS will serve as a centralised platform for storing, analysing, and sharing geospatial data across ministries and departments, enabling government departments to make data-driven decisions that enhance operational efficiency and transparency. By fostering collaboration and data sharing, the initiative aims to break down silos and promote a more integrated approach to governance. Key benefits will include enhanced data accessibility, increased inter-agency collaboration, streamlined operations, and improved transparency in land and infrastructure planning.

The Department of Survey and Mapping looks forward to continuing engagement with stakeholders as the project progresses into its design and deployment phases. This initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to modern digital governance and data-driven decision-making for the sustainable development of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

For more information contact the Survey & Mapping Department at surveyandmapping@gov.tc.

About the Survey & Mapping Department

The Survey and Mapping Department, established since 1967, is responsible for the standardisation and production of all Surveying and Mapping activities and the maintenance of the national cadaster and the country’s geodetic network. The department comprises of two (2) functional arms, a Survey section and a Mapping section, both of which are regulated by the Land Survey Ordinance and the Land Survey Regulations.