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ANNEXURE 2 IDENTIFY OPTIMUM LOCATIONS

ANNEXURE 2

IDENTIFYING OPTIMUM LOCATIONS FOR

SERVICE POINTS - SIMPLER METHODS OF

CONDUCTING ACCESSIBILITY STUDIES

Introduction

Various methods can be used to determine optimum sites for service points. They vary in
complexity and accuracy. The simpler methods are quicker and do not require high levels of
expertise. The more complex methods take time and require a good deal of technical expertise;
however they are much more comprehensive and provide more accurate results.

Simpler methods that you can use to determine the best location for service points include,
firstly, a visualisation approach and, secondly, the use of Geographic Information System (GIS)
software. Both these methods make use of Google Earth to view the results, which is readily
available and easy to use.

You could also facilitate a workshop with departmental officials (e.g. district managers) to
identify possible sites for the location of new service points. In locating new service points, it
is necessary to consider provincial development plans and IDPs of local municipalities. It is
also necessary to consult with government departments at a national and provincial level to
see whether existing departmental infrastructure can be used to locate the new service point or
whether an integrated service centre can be established.

This Annexure provides a detailed description of how these simpler methods can be applied.

Visualisation approach using Google Earth

The visualisation approach allows you to view your service points in Google Earth. The advantage
of using Google Earth is that you can use satellite imagery. From the satellite imagery you can
see the distribution and concentration of human settlements and other developments, which are
also an indication of the distribution of the population. The existing road infrastructure can also
be seen from the satellite imagery contained in Google Earth.

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