Investigating an agent based modelling approach for SDI planning: A case study of Tanzania NSDI development

Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI) provides a platform for spatial data sharing and is a key for sustainable development. Developing countries, including Tanzania, are at different stages of implementing SDIs. The importance and advantage of implementation lie in the fact that considerable funds can be saved by avoiding duplication of data, and improving quality of decisions making as well as public services. However, SDI is very complex in nature, including many influencing factors and different stakeholders. This paper investigates the possibilities of using Agent-Based Modelling (ABM) for simulating an SDI development process in Tanzania, for better understanding and making better planning. The roles and actions of organizations were identified through interviews, and the results were analysed. The behaviour of individual organizations (stakeholders) while interacting with the system were observed and analysed. The growth results in terms of data availability, standards, and data sharing for each organization were plotted and priority tables were generated. The model was evaluated for consistency and the results were judged to be within a reasonable range. The ABM simulation depicted the main attributes of agents, their roles and their interactions while pursuing SDI development in Tanzania. The results will help SDI planners and stakeholders to understand the roles of partners and prioritize activities and actions for successful SDI implementation.