GIs

A geographic information system (GIS) is a framework for gathering, storing, analyzing, and presenting spatial data. It integrates hardware, software, data, people, and procedures to help organizations capture geographic information, analyze relationships, and communicate results.

GIS combines spatial data, such as maps and coordinates, with attribute data, which describes characteristics of locations. Data can be stored as vector data (points, lines, polygons) or raster data (grids). A GIS uses coordinate reference systems and metadata to ensure data are aligned and usable.

Core capabilities include data management, spatial analysis, modeling, and cartography. Users can query data, perform proximity and overlay analyses, run simulations, and produce maps and reports. Workflows typically involve data collection and cleaning, integration from diverse sources, analysis, visualization, and dissemination.

Applications span urban planning, transportation, environmental management, agriculture, public health, disaster response, and natural resource monitoring. GIS supports decision-making by revealing spatial patterns, trends, and potential impacts.

History and standards. Modern GIS emerged in the 1960s with early systems such as Canada’s geographic information initiatives. Since then it has become a foundational technology in government, industry, and academia. Interoperability is supported by standards from organizations such as the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC), including Web Map Service (WMS), Web Feature Service (WFS), and Web Coverage Service (WCS).

Notes. GIS is not only about maps; it enables integration of diverse data sources and requires attention to data quality, privacy, and ethics.