What is a GIS System?

A GIS system allows users to create interactive queries, analyze spatial information, edit data in maps, and make a final presentation. Since its creation by Roger Tomlinson in 1968, many businesses have learned to rely on this technology. Some of the possibilities that businesses can enjoy through using GIS include better fleet management, optimization of maintenance schedules, site selection, defining routes, conservation of natural resources, improved communication within and between teams, better and more efficient record keeping and making informed decisions.

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While Tomlinson did not have the advantage of computerized GIS systems, business owners today are blessed with computerized systems that easily lead them through a five-step process allowing them to create their final presentation effectively. The first question that the system will guide the user to ask is to define the problem and its geographical location. As leaders create their query, it becomes clear what data they need to analyze and what format the final presentation should take. Possible questions that can be queried include:

• Where are facilities that provide services currently located?
• What is the population distribution?
• Do people within the highest population density have the most access?
• Are there people who lack access to service?

The second step is to acquire the needed data. Several different choices are available including vector files, digitized files, survey data, remotely sensed data, miniature unmanned aerial vehicle data or satellite remote sensing data. Once that information is entered, then the user needs to check the accuracy of the information. Users should make sure that the data is organized and note the source of the data.

The next step is to perform geographical analysis of the data. There are several possible ways to perform this analysis depending on the query chosen. Often times, it is helpful to draw a map to show the completed steps to arrive at the analysis. The final step is to present the data along with your analysis. These presentations can be done using several different formats including reports, maps, tables, and charts and delivered through printed media or through the Internet.