Geographic Information Systems
(GIS)

Introduction

Geography is a discipline with multibillion dollar
implications for businesses and governments.
Choosing sites, targeting market segments,
planning of distribution networks, or analyzing data
— all these can be related to geography or spatial
distribution. A geographic information system (GIS)
will help stakeholders make qualified decisions in
these areas.

The power of a GIS comes from the ability to relate
different information (e.g. weather conditions,
topographic maps, population density) in a spatial
context and to interrelate such information into a
visual representation that will provide users with a
convenient decision making tool.

Examples of GIS Applications

Network Analysis and Modeling of Sewerage
Systems

When information on storm and wastewater
generation are compiled for planning of sewerage
systems, it is important to realize how these waters accumulate and what patterns associated run-off
streams would follow. This is done by using a
location reference system, including longitude,
latitude and elevation. Comparing storm water and
wastewater information with other information, such
as the properties of a sewerage network (existing or
planned) in a GIS, can help  visualizing how a
sewer or stream network will respond to a severe
storm water event. This may indicate that some
sewer lines are inadequately dimensioned which
would lead to flooding. The inference can help
make the most appropriate decisions on how to
plan or upgrade a sewerage system.

Development Planning

The demand for land use in cities is likely to rise
with the increase in global urbanization. For
appropriate decisions on land use any available
information may be considered. This includes
information about landscapes, natural resources,
conditions of soil and weather, population density,
migration patterns, existing settlements, as well as local guidelines for new developments, etc. All
these information can be linked and analyzed in a
GIS which opens up a wider and better base for
making decisions.

Construction Management

During construction of large projects (infrastructure,
building complexes, hotels, hospitals, mines, etc.) a significant amount of data will be handled, e.g.
material lists, timesheets, drawings, office
documents and correspondence, CAD files, photos, memos, budget information, meeting minutes and document transmittals. A GIS can ensure that all project information is managed throughout the design and construction phases. The data extracted from material lists or timesheets can be analyzed and compared with the delivery requirements or utilized for billing purposes.

A GIS can manage important information leading to better decision making - saving time and money.