Geocodes

Geocodes are identifiers that encode geographic locations to support storage, search, and analysis in mapping and geographic information systems. They can take the form of numeric coordinates or of alphanumeric codes that represent a geographic area.

Geocoding is the process of converting a description of a place—such as an address or landmark—into geographic coordinates, usually latitude and longitude. Reverse geocoding converts coordinates back into a human-readable location description.

Formats vary. The most common are coordinates in decimal degrees (for example, 37.7749, -122.4194); grid-based references such as MGRS or UTM; and encoded area codes like Open Location Code (plus codes) or postal/administrative codes used by governments. Each format serves different systems and scales.

Geocoded data are produced from street networks, gazetteers, and address databases, and are standardized and distributed by geographic data providers, open and commercial. Examples include OpenStreetMap-derived data, national mapping agencies, and commercial geocoding services; ISO codes (country and subdivision) are often used to identify regions.

Applications include mapping and navigation, routing and logistics, geographic analytics, emergency response, and urban planning. Limitations include variable accuracy depending on data quality, potential ambiguities in place names, and privacy considerations when handling precise coordinates.