What does a Geographic Information System (GIS) provide?

A Geographic Information System (GIS) is designed to capture, store, analyze, manage, and present geographic or spatial data. It provides a layered mapping application that allows users to visualize and analyze relationships between different types of data. This feature is particularly beneficial in a variety of fields, such as urban planning, environmental management, and transportation, where understanding the spatial component of data is crucial.

With GIS, users can overlay various information layers, such as topography, land use, population density, and infrastructure. This capability enables them to gain insights and make informed decisions based on the spatial relationships and patterns identified through the visualization of these layers. The multi-dimensional aspect of GIS supports complex spatial analyses that go beyond simple mapping, integrating various datasets for comprehensive decision-making and strategic planning.