A Geographic Information System (GIS) to define indicators for development and planning in Jordan

The computerization and the creation of a digital data base is a must for the employment of many of the state of the art tools in the Optimal Planning process. This is easy made using Geographic Information System (GIS). GIS is an effective modern planning technique which gives the power to create maps, integrate information, visualize and solve problems, present future ideas and develop valuable solutions in basically no time while relating information to a geographic component. The planning challenges today are mainly due to overpopulation, pollution, deforestation and immigration, which definitely have a geographic dimension. The Departments of General Statistics/Census in all countries are considered the main source of data for governmental and private agencies. In this work, we are using a Geographic Information System (GIS) to create a database system for Jordan (a developing country) to be used for optimal planning purposes. The created GIS for the country by governorates (12 Governorates) cover all aspects of life including social, economical, resources, among others. All the departments' data in addition to a large quantity of field data that we gathered are utilized to create GIS system. Results of many GIS analysis techniques are presented for demonstration purposes. Different kinds of data will allow concerned people to have proper planning, and development according to existing realities, and can aid in deciding on priorities of such plans. The digitizing of the data is a step will be a great step forward towards optimal and well informed decision making process in the country.