From PlanningWiki
A geographic information system (GIS) is a system for capturing, storing, analyzing and managing data and associated attributes which are spatially referenced to the earth. In the strictest sense, it is a computer system capable of integrating, storing, editing, analyzing, sharing, and displaying geographically-referenced information. In a more generic sense, GIS is a tool that allows users to create interactive queries (user created searches), analyze the spatial information, edit data, maps, and present the results of all these operations.
Common GIS software and providers
Commercial
- Autodesk – Products include MapGuide and other products that interface with its flagship AutoCAD software package.
- Cadcorp – Developers of world leading GIS software and OpenGIS standard (e.g. Read/Write Open Source PostGIS database).
- ESRI – Products include ArcView, ArcGIS, ArcSDE, ArcIMS, and ArcWeb services.
- IDRISI – Proprietary GIS product developed by Clark Labs.
- Intergraph – Products include GeoMedia GIS software, as well as photogrammetry and other mapping-related software.
- MapInfo – Products include MapInfo Professional and MapXtreme. integrates GIS software, data and services.
- MapPoint – Proprietary GIS product developed by Microsoft.
- Caliper – Products include Maptitude, TransCAD and TransModeler. Develops GIS and the only GIS for transportation.
Open Source
- GRASS – Originally developed by the U.S. Department of Defense, open source: a complete GIS
- MapServer – Web-based mapping server, developed by the University of Minnesota.
External Links
