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11 th International Symposium for GIS and Computer Cartography for Coastal Zones Managementproviding the user with interactive analysis tools and reports, using Geo-visors, tables and graphs. On the otherhand, the DSS-SMPA is designed as a modular system, helping to address specific issues of MPAs. Because thismodular structure is flexible, it can easily integrate new tools that support decision making for the design or managementof SMPA. At the moment, the operational modules are: i) answering general question of Colombia’sSMPA, ii) designing new or modifying existing MPAs and iii) analyzing environmental and effectiveness indicators.The methodology for software development is based on the Unified Process which is composed of six typicalphases: Inception, elaboration, construction, transition, production and retirement (Ambler and Constantine, 2000).Results and discussionOperative ModulesGeneral questions of Colombia’s SMPAThis module allows users to access general information about the Colombian SMPA, it offers a tool for filteringquestions combining five criteria: 1) MPA name, 2) MPA managing entity, 3) MPA management level (national orsub national), 4) MPA geographic location (i.e. Caribbean or Pacific), 5) Category AP (e.g. natural national park,Integrated Management District – sub national area). Output shows a table with data of MPA and percentage ofcoastal and marine areas.Designing MPAThis module includes tools for analyzing conservation targets (e.g. ecosystems and species distribution), naturalhazards impacting biodiversity and, priority conservation proposed areas. This module also offers tools for representativenessanalysis, gap conservation analysis and creation and viability assessment of new MPA (Figure 1).Figure 1. DSS-SMPA Interface: Examples of the design and monitoring modules.184