The convenience of getting directions today on smartphones and tablets can trace its roots to the digital geographic database created 25 years ago by the U.S. Census Bureau.

The Topologically Integrated Geographic Encoding and Referencing (TIGER) database — the first nationwide digital map of roads, boundaries and water — was initially created for the 1990 Census to modernize the once-a-decade head count. However, its impact has extended well beyond its initial purpose by offering common map data in electronic form that powers today’s geographic information system industry.

“TIGER is just one example of how innovation in the government has spurred innovation and positive economic results in the private sector,” U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker said. “TIGER helped grow an entire industry — the GIS industry — and created many good jobs by providing popular mapping products integral to the everyday lives of Americans.”

In addition to celebrating this 25-year milestone, the Census Bureau is also announcing that the U.S. Geological Survey will use TIGER as the primary roads layer on The National Map Viewer and US Topo map product starting in 2015. The TIGER roads layer, which consists of all roads in the U.S., joins the TIGER governmental unit boundaries layer as an authoritative source of current, accurate and high-quality geospatial data for The National Map, which delivers topographic information for the nation. The National Map has many uses, ranging from recreation to scientific analysis to emergency response.