Geographical information systems
Geographical Information Systems
Geographical Information Systems (GIS) (pronunciation: /dʒiːaɪɛs/) is a framework for gathering, managing, and analyzing data. Rooted in the science of geography, GIS integrates many types of data. It analyzes spatial location and organizes layers of information into visualizations using maps and 3D scenes.
Etymology
The term "Geographical Information Systems" was coined in the 1960s and is often attributed to Roger Tomlinson, who is also known as the "father of GIS". The term combines "Geographical", referring to the Earth's physical features and phenomena, "Information", referring to processed data, and "Systems", referring to a set of connected things or devices that operate together.
Related Terms
- Geography: The study of places and the relationships between people and their environments.
- Information System: An organized system for the collection, organization, storage and communication of information.
- Spatial Analysis: A type of geographical analysis which seeks to explain patterns of human behavior and its spatial expression in terms of mathematics and geometry, that is, locational analysis.
- Data Visualization: The graphical representation of information and data.
Applications
GIS technology applies geographic science with tools for understanding and collaboration. It helps people reach a common goal: to gain actionable intelligence from all types of data. GIS can be used in various fields including urban planning, transport/logistics, insurance, telecommunications, and healthcare.
See Also
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