Introduction

Geographical Information Systems (or GIS) are an exciting new technological tool for the geographical analysis of geospatial location and patterns. They are computer-based means of manipulating locational data in the form of co-ordinates such as Latitude and Longitude, Grid References and Postcodes. At the 'heart' of a GIS is a database management system (DBMS) which puts data and information together in the form of maps. A GIS software package integrates technologies such as Computer Aided Design (CAD), database technology, remote sensing and digital mapping within an average desktop computer environment.

GIS applications use the digital input, storage, manipulation, display and output functions to create maps. Digital mapping is one of the uses of GIS but the potential uses of GIS are far more wide-ranging and sophisticated. It can be a very powerful tool for spatial analysis bringing together various types of information such as the types of crimes and locations for police forces to plan. Data can be viewed (or visualised) in a new way using techniques of animation, a 3D perspective and 'fly-throughs'.

GIS has many commercial applications; for example, locating the best place for a new retail outlet or supermarket, conservation and environmental management, and agriculture, in fact almost every aspect of our lives. Most recently the wide range of applications have been further enhanced by developments such as the Internet, mobile phones and hand- or palm-held computers. Global Positioning Systems (GPS) can be linked to hand-held computers for field-based mapping applications; and the new generation of WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) mobile phones means that mobile access to the Internet can be achieved.

All these new technologies are providing an ever more sophisticated and powerful array of GIS tools for use in an increasingly wide range of applications. For example, digital aerial photography and satellite imagery will revolutionise the use of environmental data in GIS applications.

WORKING IN GIS - What do YOU know about maps, information technology and strategic planning?

David R Green, Stephen D King, Department of Geography, University of Aberdeen and Judith Mansell, Education Officer, Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)