Improving Public Health Insights with GIS Training at Queensland Health
HPRB recognised the opportunity to utilise geospatial information systems (GIS) to improve data to underpin decision making.
Partnering with NGIS, HPRB set out to close skill gaps, efficiently utilise existing investment in technology, and support its workforce in visualising, analysing, and sharing public health information and data more effectively.
Identifying Challenges
HPRB faced several hurdles that limited its ability to effectively use geospatial technology:
Skills Gaps
Employees lacked a comprehensive understanding of GIS and its software capabilities. This limited their ability to apply practical GIS tools to enhance efficiency and productivity.
Maximising or Optimising opportunities
The potential of GIS to improve data analysis and visualisation remained largely unexplored, which resulted in potential critical insights and data interactions being overlooked within static, traditional reporting formats.
Raising Awareness
Despite investing in GIS licenses, the value of these tools was not being fully realised due to insufficient knowledge of the scope of the software application capabilities, lack of specialist training and unfamiliarity with the software.
The NGIS Approach
To address the HPRB challenges with GIS technology, NGIS developed a tailored training program designed to address their specific needs. Working hand-in-hand with the HPRB team, NGIS ensured the program was designed to match the goals of the business unit and explore the unique needs of the workforce. The training included a range of GIS applications such as ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, Google Earth Engine, and QGIS. The training was delivered through a collaborative approach aligning learning journeys with participants’ capabilities and emphasising a strong understanding of the business unit’s specific objectives and constraints.
The program was structured to be both flexible and supportive, with virtual sessions enabling participation from across Queensland. NGIS also provided post-training support to address ongoing queries and strengthen the learning journey. “Alex and her team’s personalised approach was exceptional in building and delivering a program that was engaging for our workforce and practical in its delivery”. HPRB, GIS Team.
During 2023 to 2024, NGIS delivered 217 training placements across 31 courses, offering participants hands-on experience with GIS data, tools and system applications. The virtual format created an interactive and supportive environment, enabling HPRB team members to confidently explore and apply new skills to their work. “One of the most helpful aspects was having tailored sessions. Pierre [NGIS trainer] worked on exactly what I needed for my project, recorded the process, and provided a step-by-step guide. It was invaluable.” Food Safety Standards and Regulation Unit.
Real-World Impact and Future Potential
The GIS training provided by the NGIS team has had a transformative impact on the HPRB team, significantly enhancing its ability to convert data into actionable insights. One notable example is the development of an interactive dashboard for the Food Safety Standards and Regulation Unit. This dashboard replaced traditional, static reports with dynamic, user-friendly visuals that allowed local governments to easily access and compare critical location-based data, such as the number of licensed food businesses and enforcement actions across Queensland. “The dashboard allowed users to hover over a map of Queensland to see data specific to their local government area. It turned complex datasets into something accessible and engaging.” Food Safety Standards and Regulation Unit.
The success of this project demonstrated the power of GIS tools to simplify and visualise complex information, making it more accessible to stakeholders and enabling faster, more informed decision-making.
Beyond the immediate benefits, GIS training has laid a strong foundation for HPRB’s long-term growth and investment in geospatial technology. Team members now have the confidence and capability to explore GIS tools independently, and the success of projects like the Food Safety dashboard has sparked interest in expanding GIS applications across other areas of public health. “Investment in training is crucial to start the journey to GIS capability as it enables your people to see the possibilities and find the solutions.” HPRB GIS team.
Looking ahead, HPRB plans to develop its GIS capabilities further to address additional public health challenges, continuing the journey towards a data-driven, geospatially empowered organisation.
The partnership between HPRB and NGIS has showcased the transformative power of tailored GIS training. Through identifying skill gaps, flexible learning approaches, optimising existing resources and ongoing support, NGIS has enabled the HPRB team to start the journey to unlock the full potential of geospatial technology.
“Spend time finding a training partner that understands your business, workforce and goals. Seek out creative people who are willing to provide an innovative and flexible approach to ensure quality client service is the priority outcome.“
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