GIS (Geographic Information System)

A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a specialised information system designed for capturing, storing, managing, analysing, and visualising geospatial data. It integrates location-based information with various data types to support decision-making and spatial understanding across numerous domains.

GIS platforms allow users to overlay spatial layers such as terrain, infrastructure, demographic data, and environmental factors onto digital maps. By combining geometry (location, shape) and attributes (descriptive information), GIS supports complex spatial queries, pattern recognition, and predictive modelling.

Typical components of GIS include:

• Data layers – such as land use, transport networks, utility systems
• Analytical tools – for distance calculation, heatmaps, and topological analysis
• Visualisation interfaces – like thematic maps and 3D representations
• Data sources – including satellite imagery, LiDAR, GPS, and public databases

GIS is widely used in:

• Urban planning – for zoning, infrastructure development, and land management
• Environmental monitoring – such as tracking pollution, deforestation, and water systems
• Logistics and transport – for route optimisation and fleet tracking
• Emergency response – enabling quick risk assessment and resource allocation

GIS enhances strategic decision-making by turning raw location data into actionable insights, and is increasingly integrated with real-time data streams and digital twin platforms.

See also: Cartography, GNSS