More than 1,000 GIS decision makers from the U.S. federal government are expected to attend the 2004 Federal User Conference at the new Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C., January 20–22, 2004. It is the only event of its kind targeted at policy makers from the nation's top federal agencies. Conference attendees will receive information on current Esri software products and the direction Esri technology is taking.

Papers are being sought for this conference from agencies that have improved how the government functions to meet the homeland security needs of this country and best serve its citizens. Examples of topics include best practices, case studies, and lessons learned.

Federal agencies are taking the necessary steps to ensure that our government is functioning at the most efficient and effective levels using today's powerful GIS technology. Agencies have made strides in improving government-to-government communication and information sharing. Many agencies have Web enabled their geospatial products and are offering their services via the Web, and return on investment is being recognized at many levels within government. Share your story with your peers.

To submit a paper or for more information, visit www.esri.com/feduc2004 on the Web. Deadline for paper submissions is November 21, 2003. Companies wishing to be a sponsor of the Federal User Conference should contact Kim Burns (tel.: 909-793-2853, ext. 1-2712; e-mail: kburns@esri.com).