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GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SERVICES (GIS)
GIS Components
A working GIS integrates five key components:
hardware, software, data, people, and methods.
Hardware
Hardware is the computer on which a GIS operates. Today, GIS runs on a wide range of
hardware types, from centralized computer servers to desktop computers used in
stand-alone or networked configurations.
Software
GIS
software provides the functions and tools needed to store, analyze, and display
geographic information. Key software components are
- a database management system (DBMS)
- tools for the input and manipulation of geographic
information
- tools that support geographic query, analysis, and
visualization
- a graphical user interface (GUI) for easy access to
tools
Data
Maybe the most
important component of a GIS is the data. Geographic data and related tabular
data can be collected in-house or bought from a commercial data provider. Most
GISs employ a DBMS to create and maintain a database to help organize, manage,
and document data.
People
GIS technology
is of limited value without the people who manage the system and to develop
plans for applying it. GIS users range from technical specialists who design and
maintain the system to those who use it to help them do their everyday
work.
Methods
A successful GIS operates according to a well-designed plan
and business rules, unique to each operation.
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RESOURCES
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CONTACT INFORMATION
Melvin Barnes
Program Manager
Geographic Information Services
Phone: (407) 665-1105
Fax: (407) 665-7412
E-mail
Information Technology Services
1101 E 1st Street
Sanford, FL 32771
Phone: (407) 665-0311
E-mail
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Components