Coastal deserts, tropical forests, dry savannas, mountain peaks, and volcanic islands form the diverse area of Latin America. As governments attempt to expand the region's interests in social development, environmental conservation, and natural resource management, difficulties arise because of the area's varying topography and climate. Decision makers and planners require a wide range of information to set policies and plan programs that promote both economic benefits and environmental protection to all types of areas. Crop and forest cover, climate, land and water use, population distribution, and other key information come from numerous sources, creating gaps and lack of data integrity. GIS solves this problem by generating accurate geographic representations and performing correlation analysis, which play an important role in data management and integrity.

Aside from aiding conservation efforts, GIS and information technologies are becoming more embraced by Latin America as countries incorporate programs and policies that support steady growth and development. However, many countries in Latin America are constrained by a limited budget, creating problems in multiple areas. GIS software brings insight that supports the development and improvement of a myriad of industries, services, governments, and businesses. Legislators, administrators, policy makers, engineers, and many others use GIS technology to target needs and allocate resources, while maintaining a strict budget.

The diversity of Latin America produces many separate, yet equally important, needs. Balancing economic development with improving quality of life, conserving resources, and coexisting in harmony with nature is a vital part of Latin America's growth. Geographic data plays a key role in developing communities and creating sustainable environments. GIS technology provides the management system necessary for the broad range of necessities within each country and community.

For more information, contact Merrill Lyew, Esri (tel.: 909-793-2853, ext. 1-1705; e-mail: mlyew@esri.com).