Applied GIS for Research | Geographic Information System (GIS) in Research | Session 1
The Geographic Information System (GIS) is fundamentally defined as a computer-based tool or technology used to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and visualize geographic or spatial data. Geographic Information Science (GIScience) is the broader scientific framework that studies the concepts, theories, and methodologies underpinning GIS. The shift from GIS as a purely technical tool to a sophisticated scientific backbone mirrors the evolution of geographic information research. Initially focused on cartographic production and data processing (first generation), GIS evolved into its second generation with sophisticated integration of data storage, computation, and visualization.
GIS has become an essential backbone for scientific research and societal progress because it systematically analyzes the spatial relationships and temporal dynamics of real-world entities. It is integral to various sectors, from urban planning and resource management to environmental protection. The ability of GIS to provide tools, methods, and workflows supports collaboration and action, leading to better decision-making, greater efficiency, and more effective communication.
The overarching role of GIS is to support humanity's fundamental quest to understand and manage complex spatial dynamics across various scales and domains. This vision extends GIS into the concept of a panspatial information system (PIS), which aims to bridge the physical, human, and information worlds. This comprehensive understanding is crucial for addressing global challenges such as climate change, sustainability, and social inequity.