What is GIS?

GIS stands for Geographic Information System which is a way of capturing, storing, analyzing, managing, and presenting data that is linked to location, through the use of specialized computer mapping software. GIS allows us to see relationships, patterns and trends in data (such as crimes, business locations, and emergency calls) in a way that is quickly understood and easily shared and therefore is valuable to an organization’s decision-making process.

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How does GIS work?

GIS stores information as a collection of thematic layers (such as buildings, streets, and parcels) that can be linked together by geography or location. GIS is a powerful tool that allows the City to input, manipulate or process, manage, query and analyze, and visualize data in a spatial way to help the City solve real-world problems, answer real-world questions, and make better decisions, so GIS is not just about making maps.
         
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What does the City use GIS for and why?

“GIS technology integrates database operations such as query and statistical analysis with the unique visualization and geographic analysis benefits offered by maps. These abilities distinguish GIS from other information systems and make it valuable to the City for explaining events, predicting outcomes, and planning strategies.” - ESRI

The City leverages the abilities of GIS technology and uses GIS as a decision-making tool to provide timely information by mapping and analyzing data to reveal relationships, patterns, and trends.

Click to go to GIS Maps and Data to see maps available online.