Geographic information systems (GIS) have a wide range of capabilities, which can be used for a variety of useful applications, such as a resource for oil spill management or a maritime security response tool. These systems provide useful information in a graphically and timely fashion, making it an ideal system for managers making critical decisions. A number of GIS programs have been developed. Among these are the Geographic Specific Tactical Response Plan (GSTRP), Florida Marine Spill Analysis System (FMSAS) and the Maritime Security Strategic Information System (MSSIS). The GSTRP and FMSAS were developed to assist responders in the event of an oil spill, where response time is critical in order to effectively reduce environmental and monetary impact. The MSSIS has been developed to better plan for, react to, or protect the port from a terrorist/criminal threat. All of these programs are similar in scope and function, with overlapping areas of operation. Each also has unique features and together they form an excellent base upon which to build a universal GIS system. Many believe the development of a universal GIS, which combines spill response, maritime security, and potentially other functions would be beneficial to the area, region, and country. This concept was discussed following a presentation of the Alabama and Mississippi Oil Spill GIS at the Regional Response Team (RRT) IV meeting at the beginning of 2002. The Alabama and Mississippi Oil Spill GIS was developed with the intention of building upon the existing systems and adding state of the art technology with additional capabilities and an internet platform to make an all encompassing system. This discussion sparked a future meeting to discuss this potential and the logistics involved in it's undertaking. This paper examines the value and development of a universal GIS within RRT IV. This project also has the potential to address the same maritime security issues as previously discussed, making it a broad application. With this continuity the project could be a living application, which would grow as needs change and technology advances, enabled by the scope of the project and combined resource management and funding.

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