The rapid technical evolution in combination with internet technologies (e. g. Web 2.0) offers a chance for more collaboration and participation. New hardware like smart phones or tablet pc’s with integrated GNSS facilitate the development of location based services or location sensitive services. They can be used for collecting data by the public (e. g. species data) or to publish information in the context of public participation processes. Using augmented reality technologies alternative futures can be presented in the real spatial context to improve decision-making processes. While GIS moved from workstations to desktop pc Web technologies and mobile devices are arising. GIS on demand using cloud technologies will be the next step.
Taking technical evolution in consideration standardization and a qualified information management will get more and more relevant. Moving the planning cycle from a step-bystep framework to a more process-oriented one standardized data models are needed. A unified terminology as a base for developing scientific models is necessary as well. Research in new design methods and the integration of science in the decision-making process is needed as well as the discussion about required changes in teaching students.
