| Initial action and continuing support for policies to protect and enhance the environment have come from grassroots groups across the country. Traditionally, environmentalists use scientific analysis and information to support their causes and positions. Increasingly environmentalists "enlist" information technologies (ITs) to manage, analyze, present, and exchange spatial information. This dissertation examines the use, value, and impact of a specific type of IT--geographic information systems (GIS). GIS technology supports the combination of spatial data from disparate sources and the display of this data in a powerful graphical image. GIS could provide the critical implement to groups struggling to impact politics and empower citizens for social change.;IT and GIS usage are evaluated by first surveying the computer usage of 100 environmental groups in northern California. Second, mail survey responses assist in locating four cases for in-depth study of GIS.;Five questions are addressed. First, how much and what type of IT has diffused through the environmental movement? The mail survey shows a diffusion rate near 100 percent and a GIS diffusion rate of 27 percent, although sharp differences in IT usage exist between volunteer groups and organizations with one or more paid staff. Second, how are groups using GIS technology to further organizational activities? The case study work finds diverse applications that draw upon extensive scientific experience and cartographic capacity. To maximize GIS use, groups employ resource substitution, including assistance from external institutions. Third, what is the process of GIS implementation and data sharing by these groups? GIS implementation models in these grassroots groups differ significantly from governmental organizations. Spatial data sharing/access for activists represents an essential antecedent to successful implementation.;Fourth, how does the use of GIS contribute to the attainment of groups goals? Groups use the technology to refine their understanding of environmental complexities; however, groups distance themselves from GIS when it appears to divert their agenda. Fifth, how does the use of GIS contribute to the attainment of the environmental mission? GSI plays a role in meeting the missions of these groups by providing the power of the image and the bridge between lay and scientific knowledge. |
