Densham makes an extremely valid point when referring to the limited uses of conventional GIS, typically known as a desktop format with limited flexibility. This sort of work still exists today when we make static maps through the use of conventional software such as ArcGIS. However, we have definitely made the leap into Spatial Decision Support Systems through the integration of the web into GIS analysis and real time data management and manipulation.
It is through this way that we have been able to realize what Miller was talking about last week. This was the need to move away from static, rigid place-based GIS to more dynamic, holistic and integrated people-based GIS. I believe that this is in line with Spatial Decision Support Systems that allow users to interact more with the information, tweaking it depending on their certain needs and interests. As space becomes something that people move about more freely in, the ability to adjust to this mobility is essential.
Additionally, I believe that SDSS are no longer confined to “managers.” Average citizens are able to use these types of systems to make decisions that affect their daily lives. For example, this could be allowing someone to input their location and desired destination into an application, which outputs a variety of routes to get there (various buses, walking routes etc…).
I see the use of SDSS continuing to make its way into the daily lives of everyone, not just the bank manager looking where to open his/her next branch
-Geogman15