Geographic Information Systems
GIS is an acronym for Geographic Information Systems. GIS are information management systems used for the processing and analyses of spatially referenced data enabling users to visualize problems and solutions.

What does that mean?
A GIS can take all different types of data (known as layers), digest it (analysis), and then in a matter of minutes give you a map (visualization) that can help a user better understand a particular space. That space can be a lot, a parcel, subdivision, city, county, state, country, soil, river, road, bridge, school, store, etc. In many cases, the general public utilizes simple GIS on a daily basis without their knowledge. Through the use of interface applications (those are the things that pop up on the computer screen and ask questions) you help create information when you use a teller machine, order a pizza, use 911, ask for locations, or fill out a form on the Internet.

However, the components of a complete GIS consist of computer hardware, software, input and output devices, the individuals involved – builders and users, and data. GIS are normally found at federal, state, regional, county, and municipal levels of government. GIS can also be found anywhere spatial analyses are performed for decision making. The extent of GIS at the private level would be dependent upon expertise, need, and usage. The types of data required for analyses are dependent upon the questions that are in need of answers.

GIS requires specialized knowledge from the fields of geography and information systems. Since geography is the common denominator -- everything being geographic -- it is the geographic or spatial information that allows the joining of other non-spatial information for visual analyses.

GIS by Design.....take a look!

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