What is GIS

A geographic information system (GIS) is a system for managing spatial data and associated attributes. In the strictest sense, it is a computer system capable of integrating, storing, editing, analyzing, and displaying geographically referenced information. In a more generic sense, GIS is a “smart map” tool that allows users to create interactive queries, analyze spatial information, edit data, and make data-driven decision making. GIS incorporates a constellation of tools that support map overlay, proximity analysis, network analysis, raster analysis, and three-dimensional surface modelling among others. Remote sensing is an important area of GIS that enables the analysis of the earth's surface and interpretation of its features using imagery collected from air or space.