Beyond Maps.
Into Intelligence.
Geographic Information System (GIS) is a powerful framework to capture, analyze, and visualize our world. It's not just about making maps—it's about connecting data to geography, revealing relationships, patterns, and trends to answer complex questions and solve real-world problems.
Geographic
It's All About Location
Everything has a location. It answers 'Where?' GIS is built on spatial data—coordinates, addresses, and boundaries.
(e.g., A building, a city, a river)
Information
The Story Behind the Dot
Beyond location, GIS links rich data and attributes. It answers 'What?' giving context to the where.
(e.g., Height, population, name)
System
The Engine of Analysis
The technology (software & hardware) that brings it all together. It lets us capture, store, analyze, and display the data.
(e.g., Linking Where + What)
The 5 Pillars of GIS
A complete GIS is more than just software. It operates on five key components, each essential for success. Without any one of these pillars, the system is incomplete.
Seeing the World in Layers
GIS represents the real world as a series of digital layers. To do this, it relies on two primary data models to translate reality into a format a computer can understand.
Vector
Uses discrete X,Y coordinates to represent features as Points (trees, signs), Lines (roads, rivers), and Polygons (lakes, buildings). It's best for mapping precise boundaries and networks.
Raster
Represents continuous phenomena as a grid of cells or pixels, where each cell has a value. It's ideal for satellite imagery, elevation, and temperature data.
From Rowsto Reality.
GIS transforms raw data tables into visual insights. Watch as coordinates on a spreadsheet become real-world locations instantly.
Google Maps vs. GIS
Viewing vs. Analyzing
While both use maps, their purpose is fundamentally different. Consumer mapping apps help you find your way, while GIS helps you find answers.
| Feature | Google Maps | GIS |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Navigation & Search | Spatial Analysis & Decision Making |
| Data Interaction | View & Consume Data | Create, Edit, Process & Analyze Data |
| Core Question | "What is at this location?" | "Why is it at this location?" |
| Typical Use | Finding directions | Site selection for a new store |
GIS in Action: Solving Real Problems
Urban Planning
"Where is the best place to build a new children's park?"
The Layers
The Analysis
Buffer existing parks, calculate distances from residential zones, and exclude areas near major roads to find suitable, accessible, and safe vacant land.
The Result
A ranked list of the top 3 optimal locations for the new park, ensuring equitable access for the community.
Who Uses GIS?
You've reached the end!
You now have a solid understanding of what GIS is and why it's so important.
Explore the Interactive Labs