Mapping  * GPS
 
 Global Positioning Systems (GPS) 
Global Position Systems (GPS) are an important data collection tool for the humanitarian worker.  Knowing the exact location of a refugee or IDP camps as well as villages and humanitarian aid offices can allow for clear planning and speed the pace of aid delivery.  GPS are small, relatively cheap and easy to use.  It is important to make sure that an aid worker has had some basic training before heading to the field and also that the HIC or IMU staff can download the data into the computer (Make sure the GPS has a cable!).  Below are data collection forms, manuals, software and reference material to assist in collecting and importing of information collected with the GPS.

Be aware of the restrictions the host country may have put on the use of GPS!
See Also:
GIS

 
 
 
 GPS Collection Forms
Examples of GPS coordinate forms.  If possible encourage those collecting the data to enter the information into the Excel form so that the data does not have to be re-entered by the HIC or IMU staff! 

See Coordinate Tools if you need to change the format or datum of the coordinates. The information below gives examples of GPS data collection best practice.Maximize

 
 GPS Manuals
User manuals of several of the commonly available GPS units (ETrex and Magellan) Maximize
 

 
 GPS Reference
Contains three documents on the fundamentals of GPS plus an example of a two page flyer explaining GPS that was used in Pakistan Maximize
 
 GPS Software
These programs allow for importing data from the GPS to the computer if you have a cable - Make sure you have the cable!

Note: All of these programs can be freely distributed however none of these programs are endorsed by the United Nations or FIS. Maximize