ABSTRACT
Needs for spatial data are increasing due to the different uses it can be put to. Due to the
progress in digitalization, the volumes of data in various fields are accumulating quickly at an
unprecedented speed. Different types of spatial resources come from different units but they
may be integrated effectively through SDI development so that users can easily obtain and
apply the shared resources. Spatial Data Infrastructures (SDIs) enable access, sharing and
propagation of spatial data needed for complex decision-making processes of the future.
Many countries are introducing SDIs. Zimbabwe has not been an exception. The initial
efforts were not fruitful. Therefore, there is need to find out how the multiple professional
identities in Zimbabwe. Professional identity, can be defined as one‘s professional selfconcept
based on attributes, beliefs, values, motives, and experiences. This research sought to
come up with a theory about the implementation of SDIs in Zimbabwe based on the
multifaceted survey professional identities. There has been a lot of research on SDIs but there
is little research on using Professional Identity as a lens.
The research methodology used was the Grounded Theory research. The author collected
data during fieldwork in Zimbabwe at different institutions in private and government
institutions using interviews guided by a questionnaire. The data was analysed according to
the dictates of this methodology and subsequently a theory was produced.
From the research, it was noted that it is not merely a case of whether or not the frameworks
produced before on the implementation of SDIs were suited for a country like Zimbabwe.
However, there were others factors that needed to be considered for the SDI initiative to be
fruitful. Factors include the pride among professionals as this determines how a person
carries out their duties. This pride led to the issue of dominance of one professional identity
over others, consequently leaving other professionals feeling inferior. Technology has a great
role to play as well because the key role players in the implementation should be aware of
their duties as well as how to execute them with the available technology as well as being
able to change according to the demands and technological changes involved. All the
professionals are aware of SDIs and their importance. However, for the successful
implementation, there is need for legislature that recognizes and protects other professional
identities within the Surveying profession. This is vital because for the successful
implementation of SDIs in Zimbabwe, all stakeholders should play their part. However, this
can only be achieved if the Survey professionals feel important thereby leading to them being
zealous to see the initiative through. This guarantees the initiative‘s success.
MAHIYA, V (2021). A Grounded Theory Study Of The Implementation Of Spatial Data Infrastructure In Zimbabwe; The Professional Identity Perspective. Afribary. Retrieved from https://afribary.com/works/a-grounded-theory-study-of-the-implementation-of-spatial-data-infrastructure-in-zimbabwe-the-professional-identity-perspective
MAHIYA, VINCENT "A Grounded Theory Study Of The Implementation Of Spatial Data Infrastructure In Zimbabwe; The Professional Identity Perspective" Afribary. Afribary, 01 May. 2021, https://afribary.com/works/a-grounded-theory-study-of-the-implementation-of-spatial-data-infrastructure-in-zimbabwe-the-professional-identity-perspective. Accessed 11 Oct. 2024.
MAHIYA, VINCENT . "A Grounded Theory Study Of The Implementation Of Spatial Data Infrastructure In Zimbabwe; The Professional Identity Perspective". Afribary, Afribary, 01 May. 2021. Web. 11 Oct. 2024. < https://afribary.com/works/a-grounded-theory-study-of-the-implementation-of-spatial-data-infrastructure-in-zimbabwe-the-professional-identity-perspective >.
MAHIYA, VINCENT . "A Grounded Theory Study Of The Implementation Of Spatial Data Infrastructure In Zimbabwe; The Professional Identity Perspective" Afribary (2021). Accessed October 11, 2024. https://afribary.com/works/a-grounded-theory-study-of-the-implementation-of-spatial-data-infrastructure-in-zimbabwe-the-professional-identity-perspective