The goal of a city or county GIS needs assessment and implementation plan is to describe in detail a logical plan for GIS development and implementation at the local government level. Typically, the plan includes consideration of human resource issues, identification of software and hardware needs and training requirements, and data acquisition and development. The plan is divided into implementation phases and steps that can logically be completed in a given time frame and that fit the needs and resources of the community. A GIS needs assessment and implementation plan provides a road map for a community to develop GIS in a cost-effective manner.