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Data Visualization and GIS

A collection of tools and resources for visualizing data with charts, infographics, maps and more!

Online Mapmaking Tools

Geographic Information System (GIS) Tools

What is GIS?

A geographic information system (GIS) is a system that creates, manages, analyzes, and maps all types of data. GIS connects data to a map, integrating location data (where things are) with all types of descriptive information (what things are like there). This provides a foundation for mapping and analysis that is used in science and almost every industry. GIS helps users understand patterns, relationships, and geographic context. The benefits include improved communication and efficiency as well as better management and decision making.

How is GIS used?

Hundreds of thousands of organizations in virtually every field use GIS to make maps that communicate, perform analysis, share information, and solve complex problems around the world. GIS can be used to ...

  • Identify problems
  • Manage and respond to events
  • Set priorities
  • Monitor change
  • Perform forecasting
  • Understand trends

How does GIS work?

GIS technology applies geographic science with tools for understanding and collaboration. It helps people reach a common goal: to gain actionable intelligence from all types of data.