A Geographic Information System (GIS) captures, stores, and manages all types of geographical data. GIS applications allow users to create queries, analyze information, edit, and present the results. GIS refers to different technologies and processes; it encompasses many operations and relates to engineering, planning, logistics, insurance, and business.
GIS and location intelligence can be a foundation for location services that are centered around analysis and visualization. GIS allows users to visualize, analyze, and interpret data to better understand patterns and trends. It benefits businesses of any size and in any industry.
There is a typical savings of at least 15 percent in operational expenses, due to fuel use reduction and staff time, and improved customer service.
A GIS is a computer system shows different kinds of date, such as streets, buildings, and even vegetation. With this technology, you can compare locations and determine how they relate. For example, GIS mapping could show areas that produce pollution and sites that are prone to pollution.
A GIS map would assist in determining high-risk areas. Because GIS uses location, it can be expressed as latitude, longitude, address, or zip code. It can also include data about population, income, and education level. And compare and contrast information about land – vegetation and soil. The GIS technology can include factories, farms, and schools.
Data comes in many different forms but can be entered into GIS, regardless of the format – digital, computerized, and even from satellite. Putting the information into GIS is data capture and can be uploaded. Maps have to be scanned and then converted. All of the information that is captured has to fit together. For example, maps have different scales but GIS combines information in a way that everything will have the same scale.
A projection is a way of transferring information from the Earth’s surface to a computer. A projection cannot the exact reality of Earth, however, different projections accomplish different tasks. GIS can take map data from different projections and combine them.
Once all information has been entered, the information can be combined to produce maps. These maps can show average income and book sales. Any layer can be added or deleted to the same map. GIS maps can show crime data to help in assigning police officers. Also, they can show homes in the area susceptible to flooding. A user can click on a school to see how many students are enrolled or the number of sports programs.
GIS contains a variety of data that is sometimes too large to appear on screen. GIS technology allows users access to it by pointing on a computerized map.
Many different businesses use GIS technology to help locate a new store, or determine animal migration patterns. City officials can plan for natural disasters, neighborhoods that are in danger, and scientists can compare population growth and future needs of public services.