GISsoftware

GIS software refers to computer programs used to create, store, manipulate, analyze, and visualize geographic information. It supports desktop, web, mobile, and server environments, enabling a range of workflows from data collection to map publishing. Desktop GIS provides advanced data editing, geoprocessing, and cartographic tools; web GIS delivers interactive maps and geospatial services; mobile GIS supports field data collection; and server GIS enables centralized data access and multi-user workflows.

Core capabilities include data management for vector and raster formats, spatial analysis (overlay, proximity, network analysis, interpolation), coordinate reference system handling, and 2D/3D visualization. Geoprocessing tools automate workflows, while cartography features support map design and publishing. Interoperability is aided by support for industry-standard formats and services, including Web Map Service (WMS), Web Feature Service (WFS), Web Coverage Service (WCS), and Web Processing Service (WPS). Common data formats encompass Shapefile, GeoJSON, KML, GeoTIFF, and GeoPackage.

GIS software ecosystems vary by licensing and access models. Open-source options such as QGIS, GRASS GIS, and gvSIG offer extensibility through plugins, while proprietary systems like Esri ArcGIS, MapInfo, and Global Mapper provide integrated suites with dedicated support. Web-oriented platforms include ArcGIS Online, Carto, and Mapbox, often focusing on data sharing and online collaboration.

Typical workflows involve data capture and cleaning, spatial analysis and modeling, map production, and sharing results via web services or published dashboards. GIS software serves multiple sectors, including urban planning, environmental management, transportation, emergency response, and natural resource management.