History of MAPPS

Founded in 1982, MAPPS (Management Association for Private Photogrammetric Surveyors) was established to represent and advance the interests of private geospatial firms in the United States. Over the decades, MAPPS has evolved into the nation's leading association for companies in surveying, mapping, remote sensing, GIS, and other geospatial services. With a strong focus on advocacy, collaboration, and professional development, MAPPS has played a key role in shaping industry policy and promoting the growth and innovation of the private geospatial sector.

MAPPS was formed by a handful of progressive firms in 1982 as a successor to the Legislative Council for Photogrammetry to provide a forum for firms in private practice photogrammetry. The organization has grown to more than 100 members based on a reputation of aggressive advocacy of the private photogrammetry, remote sensing, surveying, and GIS community.

MAPPS' primary objective is to develop strength and unity on matters affecting the interests of its member firms. It is intended to promote a quality, profitable profession, interaction among firms, advance education, both professional and public. The organization monitors and works to affect legislation that impacts the profession. It is the purpose of MAPPS to promote the business interests of the profession. Whether it’s collaborating with peers on procurement issues, geospatial policy or legislation impacting member firms and the professional community, MAPPS "reaches across the aisles" in Washington D.C. to get things accomplished. 

MAPPS is exclusively a private sector organization focused on the needs of the membership by providing a forum for the mutual benefit of its members. It invites the participation of government employees, academicians, and technical papers only that directly support the objectives of MAPPS members. As a business association, MAPPS is dedicated to developing the growth and improving the bottom-line profitability of its member firms. MAPPS provides valuable interaction with but does not duplicate or compete with the technical programs of ASPRS, NSGIC, COGO, URISA, GITA and other professional organizations.