Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Exam code: 2217

Written by: Ashika|Reviewed by: Caroline Carroll|Updated 2 July 2026

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is digital software which analyses and displays data on maps
Each GIS map is made of layers, each of which shows different information
The maps can then be used to:
- Identify correlations and patterns
- Assist in:
  - Urban planning
  - Disaster management
  - Environmental conservation

Using GIS software, users can:
- Zoom in and out to different scales
- Turn layers of information on and off
- Add data
The complexity of GIS maps depends on the purpose of the map
Google Maps is an example of a GIS application
Within fieldwork enquiries, GIS can be used either:
- To display primary data
- As a source of secondary data

GIS applications are used by businesses and governments
The use of GIS has several benefits, including:
- Improved decision-making because they clearly show patterns and relationships between different sets of information
- Effective planning for example when making decisions about where to place new housing or an industrial estate
- Market analysis to make decisions such as where to put a new supermarket
- Disaster preparedness and response by examining the areas most at risk

GIS can be expensive
Inputting the data required can be time consuming
Quality GIS output depends on quality data being inputted, which includes:
- The accuracy of data
- Whether the data is up to date
- Consistency between types of data
Bias when using GIS is also an issue because:
- Many maps still use the Mercator projection, which distorts the size of countries and regions
- The information shown depends on what is selected by the user

Using GIS