When people talk about Geographic Information Systems (GIS), they often mean slightly different things. Over the years, researchers and institutions have defined GIS in various ways, each focusing on a different aspect—whether it’s data, tools, workflows, or decision-making. Let’s look at some of the most popular and widely accepted definitions, and what they really mean in simple terms.
The General Definition
At its core, a GIS is described as a system of hardware and databases that can assemble, store, update, analyze, and display information tied to locations on Earth. In practice, this means GIS is a computer-based system that works with maps, images, and location data. Think of it as a smart tool that can collect and organize spatial data, analyze patterns, and present them as maps or charts.
👉 A simple example is Google Maps, which not only shows roads but also adds real-time traffic updates and the best routes to take.
Parker (1988) – Spatial and Non-Spatial Data
Parker defined GIS as “an information technology which stores, analyses and displays both spatial and non-spatial data.”
- Spatial data: the “where” (like roads, rivers, or boundaries).
- Non-spatial data: the “what” (like population, rainfall, or income).
👉 Imagine a city map: it doesn’t just show streets and buildings, but also information like traffic accidents or property ownership. That’s GIS combining the where with the what.
Burrough (1986) – A Toolbox of Functions
Burrough saw GIS as “a powerful set of tools for collecting, storing, retrieving, transforming, and displaying spatial data.” This definition emphasizes what GIS can do. It’s less about the type of data and more about the functions: from capturing field data to creating layered digital maps.
Department of Environment (1987) – A Systematic Workflow
The DoE defined GIS as “a system for capturing, storing, checking, manipulating, analyzing and displaying data which are spatially referenced to the earth.” This one presents GIS as a step-by-step process: collect the data, check it, analyze it, and then display it. It highlights GIS as a workflow system, rather than just a collection of tools.
Smith et al. (1987) – A Database System
Smith and colleagues described GIS as “a database system in which most of the data are spatially indexed… to answer queries about spatial entities.” In simple words, they viewed GIS as a location-based database. With spatial indexing, GIS can answer questions like:
- “Which schools are within 5 km of this hospital?”
- “Which farms are inside a flood-prone zone?”
👉 This makes GIS very powerful for planning and research.
Cowen (1988) – A Decision Support System
Cowen took things further, calling GIS “a decision
support system involving the integration of spatially referenced data in a
problem-solving environment.”
This highlights GIS as a decision-making tool. It’s not just about
storing maps or analyzing data—it’s about solving real problems, like choosing
the best site for a new road, planning urban growth, or managing disaster
relief.
Ozemoy, Smith & Sicherman (1981) – Automation and Professional Use
Earlier on, Ozemoy and colleagues described GIS as “an automated set of functions that provide professionals with advanced capabilities.” This reflects the early shift from traditional paper maps to computerized mapping and analysis. It emphasizes automation—reducing manual effort and giving professionals tools for complex tasks.
Wrapping It Up
So, what do all these definitions tell us?
- Some focus on data types (like Parker’s spatial + non-spatial).
- Others focus on tools and workflows (Burrough, DoE).
- Some highlight databases and queries (Smith et al.).
- Others emphasize decision-making (Cowen).
- And a few point to automation and advanced functions (Ozemoy et al.).
Despite the different wording, they all agree on one thing: GIS is a powerful way to connect location with information, making it possible to analyze the world around us and make smarter decisions.
Watch this video here about GIS -
References -
- Ozemoy, V.M., Smith, D.R., and A. Sicherman. (1981). Evaluating computerized geographic information systems using decision analysis. Interfaces, 11:92-8.
- Burrough P.A (1986). Principles of Geographical Information System for land resources assessment. Oxford University Press, Oxford, 194 pp.
- Department of Environment. (DoE 1987). Handling Geographic Information. HMSO, London.
- Smith, T.R., Menon, S., Starr, J.L., and J.E. Estes. (1987). Requirements and principles for the implementation and cinstruction of large-scale geographic information systems. Internation Journal of Geographical Information Systems, 1: 13-31.
- Cowen, D.J. (1988). GIS versus CAD versus DBMS: What are the differences? Photogrammetric Engineering and Remote Sensing, 54: 1551-4.
- Parker, H.D. (1988) The unique qualities of a geographic information system: a commentary. Photogrammetric Engineering and Remote Sensing, 54: 1547-9.
- Aronoff, S. (1989) Geographic Information System – A Management Perspective. WDL Publications, Ottawa, Canada.
- Burrough P.A and R.A. McDonnell. (1998). Principles of Geographic Information System. Oxford university Press, Oxford, 10 pp.
