A Local-State Government Spatial Data Sharing Partnership

A Local-State Spatial Data Sharing Partnership Model to Facilitate SDI Development
Chapter 4 describes the research design and methods. A mixed methods approach is
selected and justified as the basis to describe and classify existing spatial data sharing
partnership models and to measure the factors that influence the participation of local
governments in these partnerships. The selection of case studies and the design of the
questionnaire are detailed. Methodological issues including validity and ethical
considerations are discussed.
Chapter 5 describes and analyses three partnership case studies using a framework drawn
from SDI theory and organisational collaboration. The common elements in each
partnership are compared to formulate a generic classification for local/state government
partnership models. The characteristics of the models are later utilised in chapter 7 to
propose a generic model for local/state data sharing partnerships.
Chapter 6 reports on the results of the empirical analysis of the questionnaire which was
distributed to over 180 local governments within the three state government jurisdictions.
The results describe the capacities and perspectives of local governments which are
participating in spatial data sharing partnerships. A variety of organisational
characteristics and attitudes are compared across the three states to identify factors that
contribute to differing partnership outcomes.
Chapter 7 draws together the qualitative case study results and the quantitative local
government survey results to formulate a generic model for establishing and sustaining
sub-national data sharing partnerships. The model is evaluated through a critical review
process which utilises some of the original case studies and jurisdictional feedback. The
application of the model and its possible utility for other jurisdictions is discussed.
The final chapter, Chapter 8, presents the research achievements and conclusions. The
significance of the research findings to theory and practice are examined and
recommendations for further research are provided.
1.6 Delimitation of Scope and Key Assumptions
The focus for this research is existing local/state government spatial data sharing
partnerships within Australia which have been specifically established for the exchange of
property related information. Australia consists of six state jurisdictions and two
territories. The two territories, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and the Northern
Territory (NT) have significantly different governance and responsibilities than the six
states and assume more of a local government role in their own right. Therefore, the two
territories were not considered as suitable case studies. When the research commenced the
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