Training and Demos

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Training

GMI provides specialized mapping training for Global Ministry Mapping System (GMMS) users to enable them to effectively use and apply GIS for their particular ministries.

Included with the GMMS

  • Extensive online GMMS tutorials and documentation are included on the GMMS DVD-ROM.

Workshops

  • Introduction to GMMS - a five-day, hands-on workshop introducing beginners to basic GIS concepts and how to use the GMMS. This workshop is technical in nature, designed to enable participants to begin using the GMMS to effectively support their particular ministry purposes. No GIS experience is required, but participants must be familiar with using a Windows-based PC and be able to learn new technologies fairly quickly, as the workshop is both intense and fast-paced. It is offered in various venues around the world, with typically 10-20 participants in each workshop. Click here for more information.
  • Intermediate & Advanced GMMS Workshops - custom-designed, technical training for those already well-versed in the basics of using the GMMS. Training topics include such issues as database design and management, advanced cartographic techniques, and GIS project management.

Individualized Training

  • In Your Office - members of the GMMS community (with a variety of areas of expertise, and living in various regions of the world) are available to come to your office to provide for your specific GIS training needs.
  • Visiting Trainee Program - each year, a few select international ministry leaders are invited to GMI's office in Colorado Springs for individualized GMMS training tailored to meet their particular ministry needs.

Esri Training

Esri provides a wealth of specialized training resources to assist in learning how to use the ArcGIS Desktop software that is included in the GMMS:

  • Click here for a list of Esri training courses.
  • Click here for a list of Esri  books and other resources.

For more information, or to request GMMS training, contact GMI at info(at)gmi.org.

Demos

If you're not sure the Global Ministry Mapping System is right for you, and are interested in learning more, there are a variety of GMMS demonstration resources available.

Live Presentations, with Q&A time, can be arranged for:

  • Ministry Executives & Boards - focusing on the vision of GMMS, the strategic roles GIS can play in enhancing ministry impact and efficiency, and brief case studies of how various ministries have implemented GMMS.
  • CIO & IT Management - presenting an overview of the core components of the GMMS (the integration of GIS software, geographic databases, and attribute databases), the support services and resources available to the GMMS Community, and the key managerial and technological issues involved in planning for GIS implementation.
  • Technicians & GMMS Users - an introduction to the GMMS core components, demo of the GMMS user interface, overview of steps to produce custom maps, and (optionally) discussion of the process of converting to the current GMMS from an earlier GIS implementation.

Web sites that provide additional information include:

  • This GMMS Community site provides extensive introductory information for the person considering computer mapping for Christian ministry purposes.

Request Information

  • For more information, or to request GMMS demo resources, contact GMI at info(at)gmi.org