Geospatial technology is no longer a specialized capability used only by geographic information system (GIS) professionals, planners, and emergency managers. Across federal, state, and local government, agencies are increasingly using geospatial technologies as operational platforms that support decision-making, improve service delivery, strengthen security, and support advanced technologies.
Foundation for Modernization
Washington State CIO Bill Kehoe recently spoke about how the maturity of GIS data management has provided a guidepost for using all the related data the state has access to. GIS software can help state agencies incorporate data from light detection and ranging technology to analyze the landscape and proactively mitigate potential landslide hazard areas. GIS is also being used to manage land parcel data, support emergency services, and help the Department of Social and Health Services identify healthcare deserts.
At the federal level, contractors at the Department of Energy’s Hanford cleanup site are using geospatial technology to streamline infrastructure operations, strengthen emergency response capabilities, and support the environmental management activities of the complex cleanup mission.
Foundational Support for Drones
The Department of Homeland Security’s Program Executive Office for Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems was created to “oversee strategic investments in drone and counter-drone technologies that can outpace evolving threats and tactics,” according to the agency’s press release. GIS tools and data are critical to this desired expansion of U.S. drone use.
The U.S. Secret Service is advancing similar efforts by exploring kinetic mitigation technologies to address the threats unmanned aerial systems pose. These types of counter-drone technologies are used to physically disrupt or destroy unidentified drones and other unmanned aircraft. Geospatial data, mapping technologies, and real-time tracking systems are critical in maintaining operational awareness and protecting the public.
Supporting 6G
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s launch of Spectrum.gov was an effort to centralize federal spectrum policy resources and build transparency into how spectrum is managed. As spectrum is allocated and reallocated, agencies need geospatial data to model coverage, manage infrastructure, and support nationwide connectivity initiatives. Accurate location data is becoming a key enabler of effective spectrum planning and network deployment—essential to achieving 6G goals.
To find out more about how geospatial technology is evolving from a specialized analytical tool into a strategic platform for government operations, check out these resources from GovWhitePapers and GovEvents:
- Top 10 Geospatial Government Trends (white paper) – This report explores how agencies are using GeoAI, digital twins, drone mapping, cloud GIS, satellite remote sensing, and interoperable data standards to improve decision-making and operational efficiency. The guide also examines the growing importance of workforce development and collaborative geospatial ecosystems.
- Understanding Disasters Through Federal Data (white paper) – This paper examines how federal data can be used to better understand the people and communities affected by Hurricane Helene. By combining datasets from the U.S. Census Bureau, FEMA, NOAA, and other agencies, it highlights patterns in disaster exposure, social vulnerability, and recovery assistance.
- Building Our Autonomous Future (white paper) – Autonomous robotics are rapidly reshaping government missions, from disaster response to infrastructure inspection. Drones and robots enhance safety by entering hazardous environments, improve efficiency by automating inspections, and deliver real-time data for faster decision-making. This paper examines the path toward their widespread adoption.
- Data Readiness, Governance & Trusted AI (August 12, 2026; virtual) – Attendees will learn how to outline the specific challenges in data readiness within their agency, delineate steps to address them, and establish metrics to measure improvements in data quality, making it easier for AI tools to produce trusted solutions.
- DefenseTalks (September 22, 2026; Arlington, VA) – From artificial intelligence and autonomous systems to cyber operations and data-driven command and control, emerging technologies are redefining how the U.S. military deters adversaries, accelerates decision-making, and operates across every domain. Attendees will hear directly from top decision-makers and industry innovators about these topics.
Search GovWhitePapers and GovEvents to find even more information on geospatial technology use in government.
