The GeoCenter is a team of geographers and analysts who apply geospatial technology, data analytics and scenario planning to inform international development programming at USAID.  The team works with Washington, D.C.-based bureaus and field-based missions to optimize the strategic planning, design, monitoring and evaluation of USAID’s programs. In addition to serving the analytical needs of the Agency, the GeoCenter also collaborates with interagency, international and university partners in the geospatial community.

Their Work

The U.S. Global Development Lab’s GeoCenter applies geospatial technology and advanced data analysis to improve USAID’s ability to make better decisions and accelerate impact. Advanced data and geographic analysis allows us to see relationships between people and their environment in ways that are not possible using traditional assessments. As a result, USAID can better target limited resources to design, implement, monitor and evaluate development programs. Their three areas of focus are:

• Mapping, Analysis and Visualization: The GeoCenter uses geospatial technology, data analytics and visualization techniques to improve the strategic planning, design, monitoring and evaluation of USAID's programs.​
• Creating and Sharing Data: The GeoCenter is working with university students around the world to create new geospatial data in unmapped places. The new mapping data is published on a web-based, open data platform and is used by USAID programs.
• ​​​Creating a Data-Driven Culture: The GeoCenter is developing a generation of development practitioners that can more effectively use geospatial technology and data to make informed decisions that improve the strategic planning, design, monitoring, and evaluation of USAID's programs.