What’s is GIS?
A geographic information system (GIS) is a framework for gathering, managing, and analyzing data. Rooted in the science of geography, GIS integrates many types of data. It analyzes spatial location and organizes layers of information into visualizations using maps and 3D scenes. With this unique capability, GIS reveals deeper insights into data, such as patterns, relationships, and situations—helping users make smarter decisions. (https://www.esri.com/en-us/what-is-gis/overview)
What are some applications of GIS?
GIS integrates many different kinds of data, most of which has a geographic component. It can be applied to many sectors, only some of which are noted below, as the possibilites of its use and application are limitless!
- Community Development
- Education
- Health
- Transportation
- Real Estate
- Insurance
- Environment Monitoring & Mapping
- Population Census & Mapping
- Terrestial & Marine Spatial Planning
- Water & Electric Utiliites
- Geothermal Exploration
- Emergency & Disaster Management
What is at the core of a GIS?
GIS is an information system with geography at its core. It applies the geographic approach encapsulating data integration, spatial analysis and supports collaboration. GIS improves lives by fascilitating better decision making. It also saves time, money and resources and allows us to communicate more effectively through geospatial visualization.
