UW-Madison does not have a physical GIS "helpdesk" for answering technical questions regarding GIS software and procedures.  There are, however, several ways to get basic assistance.

GIS Technical Support via Email

For GIS software support, you can send questions to our campus This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .   A team of Geospatial Alliance volunteers will be happy to help! 

Robinson Map Library

Students, faculty and staff can contact the Robinson Map Library for assistance with the following:

• Brief introduction to ArcGIS software and extensions
• Basic understanding of geospatial data types and formats
• Where to find reliable sources of geospatial data
• Using and understanding metadata
• Simple software operations

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ,  or contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  directly at (608) 262-1471.

ESRI Virtual Campus

The Virtual Campus at ESRI.com includes many modules, including the basics of ArcGIS, Arcview, and Extensions.  We have a site license for free access to many of these.  Visit http://campus.esri.com and pick a class, then contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for codes.  

Instructor-led Training at LICGF

The Land Information and Computer Graphics Facility offers regular workshops, primarily on ESRI software.  They also offer student and staff discounts for their Instructor-led classes.

Other Workshops

The Robinson Map Library offers two “Introduction to GIS” workshops (once in the Fall semester and once in the Spring semester). Information on when and where these workshops take place is available from the UW Libraries Workshops webpage.