GIS stands for geographic information system(s). It is an integrated collection of computer software and data used to view and manage information about geographic places, analyze spatial relationships, and model spatial processes.
GIS can be used for geographic analysis, map making, spatial digitization, and spatio-statistical analysis. The Freedman Center offers a rich collection of books highlighting the potential uses of GIS. Such uses include:
- Study demographics
- Examine environmental phenomena
- Identify geographic patterns in data and make predictions
- Determine the best routes or paths to follow
- Tie together separate pieces of data to create new information
- Create and print maps for presentations and publications
Learn more about GIS and see examples of it in action!