A geographic information system (GIS) is a computer-based tool for analyzing and displaying geographically referenced data. GIS allows us to visualize and interpret data in the form of maps. Due to GIS’s precise placement of geographic features on earth’s surface, the spatial relationship between mapped features and geographically referenced data is maintained. Therefore, GIS-produced maps can help reveal spatial relationships, patterns, and trends in data.
GIS is an informative tool for planning, decision-making, and operations and inventory management. Maps can be arranged to display information about transportation networks, demographic characteristics, infrastructure systems, land use, environmental features, economic activity, etc.