Help Desk
Your First Stop for Geospatial Support
Have a question about GIS, remote sensing, or spatial data? Not sure which software to use or where to find the right dataset? The U-Spatial Help Desk is here to help. We answer questions, solve problems, and connect you with the right experts — no matter your experience level. If we can't answer your question, we know someone on campus who can, and we'll make sure you get connected.
One-on-One Consultations
Sometimes you need more than a quick answer. U-Spatial offers personalized consultations for researchers and faculty who want in-depth guidance on their geospatial projects. Whether you're scoping a new research initiative, troubleshooting a complex analysis, or exploring how spatial tools can enhance your work, our team is ready to meet with you.
What to Expect
Consultations are available in person at our lab in 420 Blegen Hall (Twin Cities) or 389 Kirby Plaza (Duluth), or via Zoom. Many consultation services are provided free of charge. For larger projects, we'll work with you to scope the engagement and identify funding options.
Get in Touch
Twin Cities Campus
U-Spatial 420 Blegen Hall 269 19th Ave S Minneapolis, MN 55455
[email protected]
Duluth Campus
U-Spatial @UMD 389 Kirby Plaza 1208 Kirby Drive Duluth, MN 55812
[email protected]
Help Desk FAQs
Quick answers to common questions about working with our Help Desk.
How quickly will I hear back?
Typical response times
We aim to respond to Help Desk inquiries within one to two business days. For urgent technical issues — such as software access problems ahead of a deadline — let us know in your message and we'll do our best to prioritize your request. During peak periods like the start of the semester, response times may be slightly longer.
Is there a cost for Help Desk services?
Most services are free
The majority of our Help Desk services are available at no cost to UMN students, faculty, and staff. This includes general inquiries, software guidance, brief consultations, and training workshops. For larger-scale projects that require significant staff time, we'll work with you to discuss scope and funding. Our goal is to remove barriers, not create them.
Can you help with non-GIS spatial questions?
We cover a wide range of spatial topics
While GIS is our core expertise, our team works across a broad spectrum of spatial technologies, including remote sensing, spatial computing, data visualization, and spatial statistics. If your question has a spatial dimension, we're a good place to start. And if it falls outside our expertise, we'll connect you with the right people on campus.
Do I need to prepare anything before contacting the Help Desk?
A brief description of your needs helps
No preparation is required, but it helps to include a brief description of your question or project when you reach out. If you have specific data files, error messages, or examples of what you're trying to accomplish, share those too. The more context we have, the faster we can help.