1.2.3

Using Geographical Information Systems

Test yourself

Who Uses GIS?

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) are an increasingly important part of geography. It is increasingly used as technology becomes more advanced.

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Data analysis

  • GIS is useful for anyone who wants to analyse data.
  • They might want to:
    • Spot patterns in data.
    • Do calculations.
    • Solve problems.
  • There are endless possibilities of what you can do using GIS.
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Insurance companies

  • One example is insurance companies use GIS to look at where a local river is most likely to flood.
    • They then make sure that these people are protected from flooding.
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Police

  • Another example, the police can use GIS to look at patterns of crime in the local area.
  • They can see where the most crimes occur and make sure that police officers patrol this area.
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Polar bear

  • A final example, scientists can use GIS to track the movement of polar bears over an Arctic winter.
  • They can use this data to see if their behaviour is changing because of climate change.
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Everyday uses

  • You have probably used GIS very recently through a mapping software on your phone.
  • You probably use GIS everyday without even knowing it!

Jump to other topics

1Geography Skills

2Geology of the UK

3Geography of the World

4Development

5Weather & Climate

6The World of Work

7Natural Resources

8Rivers

9Coasts

10Glaciers

11Tectonics

12Climate Change

13Global Population & Inequality

14Urbanisation

15Ecosystems

16Life in an Emerging Country

17Analysis of Africa

18Analysis of India

19Analysis of the Middle East

20Analysis of Bangladesh

21Analysis of Russia

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