Use of Parcel Data in New York State: A Reconnaissance Study
Summary
Project started on Sept. 1, 2004 (Completed)
Parcel information pertains to the smallest unit or lowest common denominator of land ownership. Parcels in land-oriented systems are roughly analogous to cells in an organism; they represent the basic building blocks of larger units and systems.
This project presents the findings of a reconnaissance study of information about land parcels in New York State. Broadly conceived, this information includes data about parcels that describe their nature, location, use, and association with physical and political geography. The purpose of the study, sponsored by the NYS Office of Real Property Services, was to understand the fundamental characteristics and dimensions of parcel data and provide information to help shape strategies for broader understanding and more effective use of parcel data in New York State. Accordingly, it identifies stakeholders and their interests as well as the needs and issues associated with the uses of parcel data in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Scope of Work
The Center for Technology in Government (CTG) worked with the New York State Office of Real Property Services (ORPS) to conduct this reconnaissance study of the use of parcel-level data in NYS. The purpose of the study was to understand the fundamental characteristics and dimensions of parcel data and provide information to help shape strategies for broader understanding and more effective use of parcel data in New York State. The study identified stakeholders and their interests as well as the needs and issues associated with the uses of parcel data in the public, private, and non profit sectors.
The study, conducted from September 2004 to April 2005, consisted of 35 interviews with organizations in NYS that collect, use, or distribute parcel data in county and municipal governments, state agencies, private companies, and non profit organizations. In addition, a current practice review of Web sites and documents associated with parcel data use elsewhere in the United States was completed.
The objective of the study was to learn about parcel data as it relates to the following areas:
- Methods and issues associated with the collection, use, and dissemination of parcel data
- Value of parcel data to interviewees and their programs
- Parcel data sharing methods and policies
- Parcel data management and maintenance practices
- Costs associated with parcel data
- Data flow between the focus organizations and others.
Study deliverables include a report of findings, a model of the typical parcel data flow in NYS, and a set of guiding principles for further discussions about a more effective use of parcel data in New York State.
Publications & Results
Report
Conference Paper
Related Websites
- FGDC Cadastral Subcommittee
- Government Accountability Office (2004). Geospatial Information: Better Coordination Needed to Identify and Reduce Duplicative Investments. Report Number GAO-04-703.
- Oklahoma City Economic Development Information System (OKCEDIS)
- The National Academy of Sciences. (1980). Need for a Multipurpose Cadastre.
Partners
Lead Partner
Funding Sources
The project was funded by the New York State Office of Real Property Services.