The International Symposium on Geoinformatics for Spatial Infrastructure Development in Earth and Allied Sciences, GIS-IDEAS, will take place in Hanoi, Vietnam, 25-28 September 2002.

GIS-IDEAS is organised under the aegis of the Japan-Vietnam Geoinformatics Consortium and will focus on integration of Information Technology tools for the development of spatial databases and the utilization of spatial data for mathematical modelling and computer simulation of processes related to our natural and social environment. Our main interest - besides general topics in Geoinformatics - will be the process of creating, managing, distributing, sharing and analysing digital spatial data.

The recent advances in communication technologies have paved new ways for scientific cooperation by providing the access to data, software and the scientific publications. Distributed computing as well as Open Source tools affords for the easy visualization and analysis of spatial data. We believe that it is necessary to closely examine the application of Geoinformatics for a sustainable development of our natural environment and to initiate a broad discussion on specific needs of the developing countries. GIS-IDEAS not only aims to serve as a forum for scientific exchanges but also as a conduit for technology transfer through short courses that will be organized within the framework of the symposium. Further, in order to promote a better understanding of specific needs, field excursions and visits are also being planned.

Pre-registration and Abstract submission has been closed as of March, 15th, 2002. For final Conference Registration please see the Registration page 
SYMPOSIUM SECRETARIAT