Why would we use a GIS database and remote sensing in irrigation management?

In irrigated agriculture the future goal will be to use (natural) resources more effectively. This goal can be re-worded as; improve the performance of irrigated agriculture. To facilitate this goal a set of up-to-date tools are needed. The most prominent new tool is named "performance assessment". Performance assessment can be defined as the systematic observation, documentation and interpretation of the management of a project with the objective of ensuring that the input of resources, water delivery schedules, targeted outputs and required actions are proceeding according to plan. A systematic and timely flow of actual (measured or collected) data on key aspects of a project is a sine qua cion for the monitoring of performance to become an effective management tool. This data should contain sufficient information for the managers to answer questions effectively. The use of a GIS database is the next tool needed for this purpose. Filling a database with measured and collected data may cost a considerable part of the (often limited) management budget. To make this process feasible, modern technology must be used. Remote sensing is a promising tool to measure a variety of data in a cost-effective manner.