TITLE:
A Conceptual Model for Integrating Geospatial Standards into GIS Audit Framework
AUTHORS:
Fausta M. Njiru, David N. Siriba
KEYWORDS:
Geospatial Standards, GIS Audit Parameters, GIS Best Practices, Compliance, Data Quality, Spatial Data Management
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Data Analysis and Information Processing,
Vol.14 No.1,
December
19,
2025
ABSTRACT: Geospatial standards ensure consistency, interoperability, and effective information sharing by harmonizing technical specifications while addressing the needs of developers, end users, and other stakeholders. Similarly, a GIS audit framework provides a structured approach for assessing GIS performance through predefined parameters covering four key areas: data quality, software utilization, personnel competency, and operational procedures. While GIS audit parameters evaluate performance and compliance, limited research has formalized a model linking these parameters to internationally recognized geospatial standards. Yet, both are inherently interconnected and together form a cohesive foundation for ensuring quality, integrity, and compliance in GIS management. This paper employs a mapping and analytical approach to align geospatial standards with corresponding GIS audit parameters across technical, procedural, and policy dimensions. From this analysis, a conceptual model is developed to formalize the observed relationships and demonstrate how integrating geospatial standards into GIS audit frameworks enhances audit accuracy, interoperability and quality assurance. In this context, audit accuracy refers to the precision and reliability of audit findings in reflecting the true state of GIS compliance and performance, distinct from audit comprehensiveness or general effectiveness. The model provides a transferable structure for strengthening spatial data governance and accountability across institutional and national contexts. The findings reveal strong alignment between geospatial standards and GIS audit parameters in key quality-related dimensions, while identifying gaps in domain-specific extensions, usability, workflow integration, staff competency and procedural controls. Based on these insights, the paper recommends the development of domain-specific quality extensions, usability and workflow integration guidelines, capacity-building initiatives, and harmonized procedural standards to achieve more comprehensive and effective GIS audits globally. The model links geospatial standards with GIS audit parameters, strengthening theoretical and practical understanding of standards-based geospatial governance.