Geographic information system (GIS)

System to capture, manage and analyze spatial and geographic data

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 and is used to analyze spatial location and organize 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.

History

The concept of GIS dates back to the 1960s when the first true operational GIS was developed by Roger Tomlinson in Canada. Known as the Canada Geographic Information System, it was used to store, analyze, and manipulate data collected for the Canada Land Inventory.

Components

A GIS is composed of several key components:

• Hardware: The computers and servers that run GIS software.
• Software: GIS software provides the functions and tools needed to store, analyze, and display geographic information. Examples include ArcGIS, QGIS, and GRASS GIS.
• Data: The most important component of a GIS. Data can be in the form of maps, satellite images, and other geographic data.
• People: GIS users range from technical specialists who design and maintain the system to those who use it to make decisions.
• Methods: The procedures and techniques used to analyze and interpret the data.

Applications

GIS technology is used in various fields, including:

• Urban Planning: To analyze urban growth and plan for future development.
• Environmental Management: To monitor and manage natural resources and environmental changes.
• Transportation: To optimize routes and manage transportation networks.
• Public Health: To track disease outbreaks and manage healthcare resources.
• Agriculture: To manage crop production and monitor soil conditions.

Data Models

GIS data is typically represented in two main forms:

• Vector Data: Represents geographic features with points, lines, and polygons. Examples include roads, rivers, and political boundaries.
• Raster Data: Represents geographic features as a matrix of cells or pixels. Examples include satellite images and aerial photographs.

Analysis

GIS analysis involves various techniques to interpret spatial data, including:

• Spatial Analysis: Examines the locations, attributes, and relationships of features in spatial data.
• Network Analysis: Analyzes the connectivity and flow of networks, such as transportation or utility networks.
• Geostatistical Analysis: Uses statistical methods to analyze and predict spatial phenomena.

Also see

• Remote sensing
• Cartography
• Spatial analysis
• Geostatistics
• Geoinformatics