From Data to Vision: Delving into the UN-IGIF with Deirdre Bishop

In this episode, host Valrie Grant interviews Ms. Deirdre Bishop, Chief of the Geography Division of the US Census Bureau and Chair of the high-level group on the UN-IGIF. They discuss the United Nations Integrated Geospatial Information Framework (UN-IGIF) and its impact on global geospatial information management. Ms. Bishop shares her background in geospatial information management and how she became involved with the UN-IGIF. She explains the objectives and components of the UN-IGIF and how it differs from other geospatial frameworks. Ms. Bishop also discusses the challenges and rewards of implementing the UN-IGIF and provides advice for those interested in getting involved in the field of geospatial technology.

About The Guest

Ms. Deirdre Bishop is the Chief of the Geography Division of the US Census Bureau. She also serves as the President of the US National Section of the Pan-American Institute of Geography and History and chairs the high-level group on the UN-IGIF (United Nations Integrated Geospatial Information Framework). With over 20 years of experience in geospatial information management, Ms. Bishop has made significant contributions to the field and is a trailblazer in the global geospatial community.

Key Takeaways

1. The UN-IGIF is a comprehensive framework that helps countries develop and strengthen geospatial information management.

2. The UN-IGIF integrates statistical and geographic information to provide decision-makers with valuable tools for addressing global challenges.

3. Implementation of the UN-IGIF varies depending on each country's starting point, but all countries can benefit from its guidance.

4. The UN-IGIF contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals by providing a foundation for reporting on progress and identifying areas for action.

5. The high-level group on the UN-IGIF focuses on communication, capacity development, and sustainable funding to support the implementation of the framework.

More information on the UN-IGIF can be found at UNSD — UN-GGIM.