A general discussion of a process for early analysis of social economic and environmental effects in transportation planning through the use of a computerised geographical data file.

The only way individuals responsible for making transport decisions can response to the demands as well as prepare for the uncertainty of the future is with a geographical data file filled with pertinent information and organised in a logical fashion. The Georgia Department of Transportation has taken the first step which will lead to a sophisticated user oriented system capable of providing benefits not only in transportation but all types of physical planning.