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With the growth of GIS technology, solutions are more accessible to customers than ever before. Especially if you're new to using GIS solutions, it's wise to learn a few basic things about them. Customers should understand these four things when it comes to GIS technology solutions.

What Is GIS?

Geospatial information systems tie some type of data to a defined geographic area. If you've ever looked at a population density map, you've seen one of the basic applications.

The Value of Good Maps and Data

Notably, you'll need two things to create a basic GIS product. First, you need a worthwhile map. Suppose someone needs to create a map of property values along a coastline. If they're working with an older map that doesn't reflect beach erosion, sand accumulations, and sea-level changes, the result is going to be inaccurate. Consequently, your GIS solutions always need to use up-to-date maps.

Similarly, you need to collect quality data. If you are using information that's out-of-date, incomplete, or wrong, even the best GIS technology solutions won't make up for that shortcoming. Whether you're gathering information yourself or collecting it from a repository, you need to use proper data quality monitoring practices.

Establish the Case for the Project

GIS data almost always looks cool because maps are cool. Unfortunately, that means GIS technology can produce something that might be interesting-looking without being relevant.

That is not a shortcoming of the technology. Customers must establish clear cases for their projects. If you're planning to make a map, what is the goal? Likewise, what is the story the product should tell?

Suppose a company wants to apply for a commercial zoning variance for a grocery store in a residential area. They might use GIS technology to compile data about the lack of accessible grocery shopping options in the region. The product might be a map that shows the median drive time of each household in the neighborhood to the three nearest grocery stores. Using a heat map to indicate how bad the drive times are, they can then present a second map showing the reduction once the variance is granted and the store starts operating.

Choose the Right Approach

There are many options for GIS products. Do you want a 2-D or 3-D map? Should it be a map or a globe? Maybe a timetable would tell the story better without even including a map? Talk with a GIS solutions provider to learn which option they think matches your use case best.