2026 Big Sky GeoCon - From Data to Design

The partnership between local governments and the Montana State Library for parcel data integration has continually evolved to support more efficient and accurate local contributions. Building on this collaboration, Butte-Silver Bow has enhanced its parcel stewardship by developing Python-based QA/QC tools that identify topology issues, duplicate geometries, geocode problems, and other inconsistencies before submission to the state. These scripted workflows improve local data quality and streamline integration with the statewide system. This presentation will highlight the history of the Butte-Silver Bow–Montana State Library partnership, recent technical advances, and the shared benefits of cooperative parcel data stewardship in Montana.

The purpose of this collaboration session is to provide helpful guidance for anyone using ArcGIS Pro and Python together or separately. The basis for the material presented and demonstrated is everyday experience, particularly with respect to an annual project for which procedures have evolved over many years. A list of related and unrelated topics will be reviewed and audience members will be invited to contribute to the discussion. Ideally, there'll be something for everyone and, as usual, the goal is to provide a forum for a beneficial exchange of information, ideas, and inspiration.

Join us for our annual (informal) roundtable discussion related to addressing responsibilities. Enjoy this opportunity to share knowledge and experiences with colleagues; ask questions and share projects and/or best practices!

Discussion Topics
Addressing commercial buildings with multiple businesses and accesses
Addressing apartment complexes (naming roads, assigning primary numbers to each building, etc.)
Addressing ADU (Accessory Dwelling Units), including apartment above garage, etc.)

Placeholders
Addressing and Road Naming Conventions and Procedures
3rd Party mapping applications (Google, Apple, Bing, OpenStreetMap, etc)
Review existing/upcoming projects
Review unique scenarios, experiences, and resolutions
NG 9-1-1 status

This 60‑minute facilitated roundtable invites local government GIS professionals to share and discuss emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping GIS programs today. Topics may include the growing role of AI and automation, evolving job roles and expectations for GIS staff, organizational capacity and workforce development, and major technology transitions such as Web AppBuilder to Experience Builder, Geometric Network to Utility Network, and expanding use of modern web GIS applications.

Participants are encouraged to share what changes they are experiencing in their organizations, how they are adapting workflows, skills, and technologies, and what strategies or lessons have proven effective—or challenging—in practice. The goal is to foster candid discussion, identify common themes across Montana and the region, and help attendees leave with ideas, perspectives, and connections they can apply within their own local government GIS programs.

Discussing the challenges and freedoms that come with working as a solo GIS department. Highlighting asset management, empowering staff, growth policy, current projects.