Since electronic mapping became readily available over the past ten to fifteen years paper maps have taken a back seat in most situations. Prior to the arrival of the personal computer most organisations would have had to have very large financial budgets to provide a GIS system. Then GIS was the province of central governments and the largest multi-national companies. Now, because of the combination of affordable and powerful personal computer systems, plus the availability of massive inexpensive storage capabilities even the smallest of organisations can afford to have a GIS system.
To make the most of a GIS, whatever system is chosen, it is important to fully understand your requirements to ensure that you successfully put the system into use.