What is GIS?

GIS (Geographic Information Systems) is a technology that combines databases and computer mapping systems to interactively visualize data both spatially and temporally. Although geographic information systems were traditionally associated mainly with environmental analysis and resource management, they are now becoming more prevalent in the government, private and academic sectors. In fact, because GIS technology is such a versatile cross-disciplinary tool, it is quickly becoming the preferred mechanism for managing information.

Links to Key GIS Concepts

GIS Examples

Combining statistical databases with census tract data to visually analyze the distribution of heart disease cases nationwide.

Health Sciences

Mortality Map of Heart Disease in White Males (1988-1992)
CDC/National Center for Health Statistics
Hyattsville, MD
 http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/pubs/pubd/other/atlas/hdwm.htm

Merging 3D shaded relief surface, aerial orthophoto, and satellite image data to analyze the volcanic hazards in the Mount Shasta region.

Digital Shasta

Digital Shasta--Applying GIS Technology to Volcano Hazards
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
Menlo Park, CA
 http://www.esri.com/mapmuseum/mapbook_gallery/volume16/geology4.html
Copyright © ESRI

Using the USDA NRCS geographic soils databases to generate thematic maps showing the relative suitability of soils in the contiguous United States for ground-penetrating radar analysis.

Agriculture

GPR Soil Suitability Map of the Conterminous U.S.
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Natural Resources Conservation Service
 http://www.esri.com/mapmuseum/mapbook_gallery/volume18/agriculture1.html
Copyright © ESRI