The Foundation Spatial Data Framework (FSDF) baseline survey was conducted by Geospatial Frameworks for Australian and New Zealand Spatial Information Council (ANZLIC), a peak body comprising Australian State and Territory Governments and New Zealand.

This baseline survey established a benchmark from which progress towards the aspirational goals of the Australian and New Zealand FSDF is now be measured. The objectives of the project were to compare and contrast current Australian State/Territory (jurisdiction) capabilities with those required to deliver the FSDF themes/data sets.

The survey was designed for online data gathering and used an online survey tool ‘SurveyMonkey’ to capture information from a broad range of participants. An extensive stakeholder identification process was undertaken to include a full range of FSDF participating agencies. The survey  sought to understand:

  • If the spatial information collected, managed and stored by jurisdictions is in a format that can be used by the FSDF.
  • The activities and associated costs required to bring jurisdiction data themes/data sets to a state where they can be used by the FSDF.

The baseline survey comprises ten data themes, including positioning data and services. For each theme, there are 30 online questions related to the readiness of government to deliver on the FSDF goals.  Over 200 surveys were conducted.

The report and accompanying survey matrix identified gaps in current capabilities and highlighted general trends in the application of spatial technology, standards, models, processes and delivery modes across the Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments and across sectors.  The report recommended actions for developing the FSDF Data Theme Road Maps

Geospatial Frameworks delivered the following scope of work:

  • Developed the baseline survey to identify the current capabilities and status of each jurisdictions readiness to deliver on FSDF data. This included:
    • A breakdown of the data delivery mechanisms for each theme by jurisdiction (technology, cost models, licensing, update frequency, formats);
    • How the information under these themes is searched, queried, accessed and used by each jurisdiction;
    • A contrast of jurisdiction delivery mechanisms compared with national requirements;
    • A statistical analysis of survey responses per data theme;
    • Identification of data and process gaps so that the FSDF project leads can build capabilities into their projects to overcome these barriers;
    • Identification of the investment required to deliver data to FSDF Requirements;
    • A coordinated end-to-end Baseline Survey Process.
  • Analysed participant responses and reported on findings and recommendations with respect to the research questions.
  • Prepared a report that included a write-up on findings, recommendations, and survey matrix, and tables and graphs to present survey results.