Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Geographic Information Systems are groups of applications that serve to manage, analyze and publish geospatial data. Cartographic GIS services are probably the ones most commonly known, especially with the maturation of online mapping services, and their integration into popular web sites and applications. But enterprise GIS systems began to be developed in the 1960s, and since then have been used primarily in any scientific analysis possessing a geospatial component.
Recently several organizations have been created to manage and promote GIS-related standards within the industry, as well as to support open-source products. This is a promising trend that should help to broaden participation and lessen reliance on proprietary products and formats.
Related Resources:- Open Geospatial Consortium, Inc. (OGC)
- Open Source Geospatial Foundation
- Mapping and Geographic Information Services (UNC Facilities Planning)
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