 |
GIS is mapping and analysis software that is being used by a rapidly growing number of professions because it is so versatile and powerful. Everybody uses maps, but very few know how maps are used behind the scenes by others to keep things running smoothly. Here is a list of just 10 of the many uses that GIS has to offer.
1. Real estate
Are you thinking of buying a new house? With GIS you can check out houses before you decide to buy. What kind of neighborhood is the house in? What is the historical value of real estate in the area? What are the driving and shopping conditions like in the area? You can find out the answers to these questions using GIS.
2. Delivery route optimization
GIS is used by companies such as UPS and USPS to analyze delivery route patterns.
This helps minimize the routes that their trucks take reducing delivery time and expense. Not only does this show the shortest route, but GIS can also be used to reveal streets that have increased traffic, stop lights and other obstacles that can slow down delivery time. GIS can help determine if a faster route is available to the driver by revealing less congested streets. Geographical information systems can also help delivery companies by minimizing the number of times that the trucks cross each others paths reducing the number of delivery trucks in each zone.
3. County zoning plans
By using GIS, counties can keep track of city zones, and keep precise records of where electrical lines, and underground piping systems are located. Counties can also keep track of parcel data, and easement information.
4. Track species
Geographical information systems can be used by state conservation departments to keep track of conservation lands. Conservation departments can also analyze species migration patterns and to monitor endangered species.
5. Traffic patterns for road improvements
Current road conditions and street traffic patterns can be analyzed to determine when roads need repairs. GIS can also be used to better manage stop lights and stop signs in order to eliminate traffic jams and increase traffic flow rates.
6. Economic growth
Businesses can use GIS to analyze shopping trends and determine if a new store would be profitable. You can also check out what times of the day the new store would have the heaviest traffic to determine the new store hours.
7. Model scenarios to test theories
Do you want to know what kind of impact building a dam will have on the environment? GIS can be used to test theories, and help discover potential problems before a project is built. This can result in greener, safer projects being built.
8. Track and maintain assists
By adding a GPS device to equipment, businesses and governments can use GIS to keep track of where there equipment is. This allows for better management of resources. If an item is stolen or misplaced by workers, GIS can be used to pinpoint the exact whereabouts of the equipment. The result is less wasted money from a reduction of lost time and equipment.
9. Crime mapping
Law enforcement can benefit from GIS to monitor where crimes happen, and determine where high crime rate areas are. Geographical information systems can also be used to keep tract of sex offenders, and those who are on parole. GIS can also be used to create buffer zones around businesses and government buildings. For example, law enforcement can check to see if a business that is selling liquor is inside a school zone or not.
10. Emergency and disaster monitoring
Natural disasters and emergencies can happen at any time. GIS can be used to help emergency workers plan and prepare for them, and provide help when a disaster does happen by organizing search grids to maximize rescue efforts.
This is just a small list of many of the exciting things that GIS is being used for. Geographical Information Systems has many uses that can make boring data reveal new trends and patterns that is useful to a large number of fields.
To learn more about the many uses of GIS feel free to visit us at http://www.dms-mapping.com/ to learn more.