Park and Recreation Operating Ratio and Geographic Information System

About PRORAGIS

PRORAGIS, an acronym for Park and Recreation Operating Ratio and Geographic Information System, launched in January 2011. PRORAGIS is a searchable, online database whereby the user (public park and recreation department) fills in valuable information on their profile and controls that data. The data can then be used to generate a variety of reports and users have access to GIS mapping tools.

PRORAGIS is a merger of two preceding NRPA products: the 2009 Operating Ratio Study and the NRPA GIS Model.

Operating Ratio Study

The Operating Ratio Survey was distributed to NRPA member departments in March 2009 with a six-week window to complete the survey. The survey was a one-time snapshot of the responding departments’ jurisdiction, organization, finances, resources, staffing, and programs. Out of 3,100 surveys distributed, 679 usable surveys were returned. This provided statistically accurate data for a national study, but was inadequate for determining regional results and grouping by other variables. The results were available in hardcopy reports, which were free to departments that participated. In addition there was a searchable online database using the data submitted. It was available to members and non-members for a fee. The survey was to be conducted annually.

GIS Model

In March 2010, NRPA completed a GIS Model that standardized the attribute and value definitions for parks, trails, and facilities. The GIS Model was created because there were as many different definitions as there were departments. The Model was not intended to collect asset data but to provide a format for existing and future GIS data providers to adopt the standard terminology allowing different departments to compare resources.

With the GIS Model completed and attention turning to the next Operating Ratio Study, it became apparent that a continuous study would broaden the database and departments once they had completed a profile would only have to update annually. Further, it was estimated that up to 70% of park and recreation departments do not have access to their own GIS information. By creating the profile, we could not only offer an interactive, real-time, searchable database, but also, a web-based GIS program that could be used by the departments less familiar with GIS to conduct spatial analysis and obtain mapping data for planning and management.

NRPA Membership and Report Access

NRPA members may submit data and access full reports at no cost. While non-members are welcome to submit their data, they will find access to reports limited. The reporting features are available non-members that wish to purchase access.

Learn how you can become an NRPA Member.