What is GIS?

A spatial system that creates, manages, analyzes, and maps all types of data

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 are using GIS to make maps that communicate, perform analysis, share information, and solve complex problems around the world. This is changing the way the world works.

A colorful vertical concentration map overlaid on a grayscale contour map Identify problems

Illuminate issues that are driven by geography. In this story, maps and visualizations connect present-day environmental inequalities to redlining policies.

Explore the redlining story
A concentration map of parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa with glowing golden clusters on a purple and black background Monitor change

Visualize and communicate change. This story uses maps to show how humans impact our warming planet and shares what we can do to create a more sustainable future.

Explore the climate story
A concentration map of Wuhan, China, with clusters shown in teal on a white background Manage and respond to events

GIS delivers real-time situational awareness. The maps in this story help us understand the spread of COVID-19 and the global impact of the pandemic.

Explore the COVID-19 story
A colorful map of Norfolk, VA with water-adjacent buildings and roads shaded red and yellow Perform forecasting

The maps in this story reveal how coastal communities are impacted by sea level rise and explore data that can help us predict and prepare for flooding.

Explore the flooding story
A contour map of midwestern U.S. in lime green and purple on a black background Set priorities

By analyzing soil health, farmers can determine when and where to plant certain crops, maximizing yield while minimizing environmental impact.

Discover how farmers use GIS
A bar graph and line graph alongside a corresponding U.S. concentration map in blue and white Understand trends

Visualize data with GIS to gain insights that might be missed in a spreadsheet. This story uses maps to understand bird populations and migration routes.

See how GIS can map migration

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.

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    Maps

    Maps are the geographic container for the data layers and analytics you want to work with. GIS maps are easily shared and embedded in apps, and accessible by virtually everyone, everywhere.
    Read about maps in The ArcGIS Book
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    Data

    GIS integrates many different kinds of data layers using spatial location. Most data has a geographic component. GIS data includes imagery, features, and basemaps linked to spreadsheets and tables.
    Read about data in The ArcGIS Book
  • Illustration of location marker with data pinpointed on land

    Analysis

    Spatial analysis lets you evaluate suitability and capability, estimate and predict, interpret and understand, and much more, lending new perspectives to your insight and decision-making.
    Read about analysis in The ArcGIS Book
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    Apps

    Apps provide focused user experiences for getting work done and bringing GIS to life for everyone. GIS apps work virtually everywhere: on your mobile phones, tablets, in web browsers, and on desktops.
    Read about GIS apps in The ArcGIS Book
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Who uses GIS?

Modern GIS is about participation, sharing, and collaboration. Discover how the technology is strengthening relationships, driving efficiencies, and opening communications channels in your community.

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    GIS Showcase

    Discover interactive maps and visualizations created with GIS that inform, engage, and inspire.
    Learn more
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    History of GIS

    Explore the evolution of GIS from a rudimentary tool to a comprehensive platform for designing a smarter world.
    Learn more
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    GIS Careers

    Learn how GIS professionals qualify for occupations in countless fields.
    Learn more
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    GIS Resources

    Find resources for expanding your knowledge about GIS.
    Learn more
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National Geographic Explorers use GIS

Discover the power of geography in this series of video shorts by National Geographic and Esri, featuring National Geographic Explorers who are using GIS to map a better future.