Geographic Information System

application (GIS) A computer system for capturing, storing,

checking, integrating, manipulating, analysing and displaying

data related to positions on the Earth's surface. Typically,

a GIS is used for handling maps of one kind or another. These

might be represented as several different layers where each

layer holds data about a particular kind of feature

(e.g. roads). Each feature is linked to a position on the

graphical image of a map.

Layers of data are organised to be studied and to perform

statistical analysis (i.e. a layer of customer locations could

include fields for Name, Address, Contact, Number, Area).

Uses are primarily government related, town planning, local

authority and public utility management, environmental,

resource management, engineering, business, marketing, and

distribution.

GIS dictionary.

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(1995-12-21)