What is GIS?

A framework to organise, communicate and understand the science of our world

A geographic information system (GIS) is a framework for gathering, managing and analysing data. Rooted in the science of geography, GIS integrates many types of data. It analyses spatial location and organises layers of information into visualisations using maps and 3D scenes. With this unique capability, GIS reveals deeper insights into data, such as patterns, relationships and situations - helping users make smarter decisions.

What is GIS?

Hundreds of thousands of organisations in virtually every field are using GIS to make maps that communicate, perform analysis, share information and solve complex problems around the world. This is changing the way the world works.

Identify problems Monitor change Manage & respond to events Perform forecasting Set priorities Understand trends

Identify problems

Use GIS to illuminate issues that are driven by geography. This map reveals geographic insights into the problem of fly-tipping.

Monitor change

If a picture tells a thousand words, a map tells a thousand pictures. This map shows the changing British landscape from the Ice Age to the Present.

Manage & respond to events

GIS delivers real time situational awareness. This map shows how a water utility company can monitor its network and respond dynamically to leaks and other disruptions affecting the network.

Perform forecasting

New Housing Developments need to be carefully planned and those affected by the work need to be properly informed. ArcGIS provides tools for identifying potential development sites through to sharing views during the full lifecycle.

Set priorities

GIS helps to set priorities based on spatial analysis. Gathering information from the community and analysing crime patterns police can identify target areas and plan strategically to address crime.

Understand trends

GIS helps you gain insight into data that might be missed in a spreadsheet. This map explores how to build healthy communities including how the geographic prevalence of diabetes is increasing in some areas more than others.

How GIS works

GIS technology applies geographic science with tools for understanding and collaboration. It helps people reach a common goal: to gain actionable intelligence from all types of data.

Maps

Maps are the geographic container for the data layers and analytics you want to work with. GIS maps are easily shared and embedded in apps and accessible by virtually everyone, everywhere.

Data

GIS integrates many different kinds of data layers using spatial location. Most data has a geographic component. GIS data includes imagery, features and basemaps linked to spreadsheets and tables.

Analysis

Spatial analysis lets you evaluate suitability and capability, estimate and predict, interpret and understand and much more, lending new perspectives to your insight and decision-making.

Apps

Apps provide focused user experiences for getting work done and bringing GIS to life for everyone. GIS apps work virtually everywhere: on your mobile phones, tablets, in web browsers and on desktops.

Who uses GIS?

Modern GIS is about participation, sharing, and collaboration. Discover how the technology is strengthening relationships, driving efficiencies, and opening communications channels in your community.