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Geographic Information Systems, or GIS for short, is computer software that allows individuals and organizations to administer, retrieve, analyze, and present geographic information. GIS uses spatial data such as the location of roads and boundaries on a map to perform certain tasks. Governments can also use GIS to manage resources efficiently.
For example, if you wanted to find the fastest route from one place to another around a city, you would use the navigation features of a car’s GPS, which would then show you exactly where roads are and how long they will take you on your journey. The navigation system would use the location of roads to calculate a route for the driver and shown in graphics on the car’s display. Here are the four facts to know on how geographic information systems work.
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1. GIS Can Be Used to Permanently Store and Manage a Large Volume of Information
GIS can be used to store any data, such as layers with location-specific data on roads, rivers, and vegetation. Governmental organizations like the USGS (United States Geological Society)use GIS to keep track of all the locations where there is find for natural resources worldwide. These tools can be handy for businesses like contractors in the construction field who use GIS to trace certain materials or locations.
2. GIS Can Be Used to Measure and as A Training Tool
Geographic Information Systems measure and record measurements and data. For example, if you wanted to measure the water depth, you would get the height above ground level and then compare it with water depth. The difference between these two measurements is how deep the lake is. In this case, GIS is used to not only keep track of your measurements but also to show your results based on the data collected.
Geographic Information Systems is also used in the educational system, such as in high schools to show maps and teach students about GIS. These tools have made it easier to learn about geography, especially when studying maps.
3. GIS Uses Code Like Any Other Computer Program
Like all computer programs, GIS must be written in code that tells what and how to do it. The input of data, such as coordinates and measurements, puts all the information together to formulate a solution. Also, computer-aided design, CAD for short, is closely related to GIS because it can process large amounts of data and then produce graphics that are easy and accessible for everyone.
4. Many Industries Use GIS
The uses of GIS are endless and used by numerous industries such as construction, defense, health, geographic surveying, law enforcement, oil and gas production and mineral exploration.
GIS is everywhere today and is used in many different ways. From navigating your way around a city to keeping track of natural resources worldwide, GIS can help you with all these tasks.
Considering all this information, today, geographic information systems have become an important part of life. If a company or individual needs to measure locations or look at satellite images, they use these systems everywhere, from national parks to shopping mall directories, to help them with their task.
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