In response to the between the poles blog, I’m posting some comments on the conference from an attendee, Maurizio of Madmappers.
I agree: it has not been a traditional GIS conference. Interaction between delegates was superb. I wish to thank the organizers for their efforts.I wish to add that the SA 250k and 50k maps are available on line (courtesy of CDSM) for free download at http://www.madmappers.com
Since 2003, when South Africa first introduced a GIS dissemination policy based on cost/media (approx US$3/CD) the GIS industry has boomed beyond any expectation. We do applaud this bold move which has broken the monopoly of few rich companies (the only ones who could afford to purchase data in the past)and has resulted in hundreds small GIS companies and software developers entering the market.
The next step is the introduction in 2007 of GIS as subject in the last 2 years of South African high schools.
It is also very exciting to hear that similar dissemination policies are now been considered in neighboring countries. It should be quite obvious by now that it is the only way to stimulate the birth of a African GIS industry