One of the underlying assumptions of the NYS Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Cooperative project is that GIS is a valuable public management tool, whose benefits could be enhanced through increased coordination. This project sought to identify the value of geographic information systems and spatial data in the public sector, as well as to examine mechanisms and opportunities for leveraging the benefits and minimizing costs. This value can be seen across a broad array of program areas. This report demonstrates the value that GIS can add to three programmatic areas of vital importance to New York State: economic development, environmental conservation, and public health and safety.