From Requests to Results Transforming GIS Dashboards into Strategically Aligned Tools

GIS Builder
Management
dashboard
Published

October 21, 2025

Presentation Type: Presentation (30 minutes)

Skill Level: Intermediate

Intended Audience: GIS Builder, Management

Abstract

Local government GIS teams are often approached with operational requests-€œbuild me a map,€ €œtrack this asset,€ €œshow me where the work orders are.€ While these deliver immediate value, the real opportunity lies in elevating these tools to support strategic goals and secure executive buy-in.In this session, we’ll explore how to transform a dashboard from a tactical, request-driven deliverable into a strategically aligned decision-making tool. Using the example of the Town of Normal’s €œParks Report Card Dashboard€ developed to track park amenity conditions, we’ll walk through how this asset tracking tool can become a performance indicator-driven tool to share with the public. You’ll learn how to:Identify any existing government’s strategic or/and comprehensive plans.Ask the right questions during dashboard consultations to uncover true organizational goals.Parse out operational metrics to highlight pain points, justify investments, and inform budget decisions.By repositioning GIS as an organizational decision-informing tool rather than just a technical service, you’ll strengthen your role, secure leadership engagement, and open doors for further strategically aligned projects. Whether you manage a large GIS team or wear multiple hats in a small jurisdiction, you’ll leave with practical strategies and question sets to make your GIS dashboards not just useful-but mission-critical.

Presenter(s)

Sara Schelinski

GIS Coordinator, Town of Normal, IL

Sara Schelinski serves as GIS Coordinator for the Town of Normal, Illinois, where she leads projects in GIS strategy, data governance, and smart city technology. While working in local government, she has led initiatives such as the Town’s pursuit of the What Works Cities certification, enhancing the Town’s data-informed decision making and transparency for measurable community impact. She has also led the Town’s Data Innovation Team (Data iTeam), established the Town’s organization-wide data standard, and frequently delivers data capacity-building opportunities for both Town staff and residents. Known for her strategy-focused and intentional approach, Sara is dedicated to aligning GIS tools with organizational goals to drive operational efficiency and long-term value.