Evaluating collective effects: A participatory approach to mapping public information about water issues in an uncertain and politicized context

Abstract

This chapter focuses on developing theoretically defensible and politically sensitive metrics through a participatory geographic information system (PGIS). This is particularly useful in cases where information related to a water governance problem is distributed across a variety of organizations in a variety of formats. The chapter describes a participatory mapping exercise relate to public outreach and then compare differences in available water information availability across metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona. The PGIS process led to a different set of outcomes than conventional approaches to GIS data collection and analysis. Each map uses a different combination of data aggregation (census tract, zip code, or distance buffer) and accounting method (a count or an economic proxy). This accommodates diverse data sources and participant concerns while also addressing conventional GIS concerns like the modifiable aerial unit problem.