What is GIS?
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are increasingly used in all areas of business. From simple address details to complex modelling, GIS uses computer-based maps and databases to show information and carry out analysis. Even complex information can be clearly and simply depicted in a visual chart or map, helping to communicate difficult messages clearly.
GIS is a very broad field and includes processing of satelite images, predicting flood areas and managing large networks such as roads or utilities. Popular applications include Google Earth, in-car navigation systems and location specific data sent to mobile phones. However GIS is also widely used as a serious business and research tool.
Groundwork's uses generally fall into one of the following categories:
Displaying Information
At its most basic, GIS allows you to access maps and tables created by different organisations and to help put an area or project into context. The example here shows an area being developed as a country park and the relationship to two areas that score poorly on the Index of Multiple Deprivation.
Analysis
GIS is not just about pretty maps (although these can be quite effective when used in the right way). It is used as a serious research tool by many universities and increasingly by government departments, agencies and local authorities. It is widely used in the private sector for tasks such as site selection for new stores, managing facilities and route planning.
Show Change Over Time
Before and after photos are very effective for individual sites. However, much regeneration work is based on the cumulative effect of a number of relatively small projects carried out in a particular area over several years. GIS can enable this change to be shown and can also be used as an evaluation tool.
Visualisation
All of the above examples are essentially 2-dimensional. However, height information can be added along with textures and specialist programmes used to create 'virtual sites'. These can then be used to create animations or walk throughs. They can also show alternative options for a site and allow members of the community to see the effect of schemes and move elements of the design around (such as trees, benches or slides).
