What is Geographic Information System (GIS)?
"GIS is a collection of computer hardware, software, and geographic data for capturing, managing, analyzing, and displaying all forms of geographically referenced information." - (ESRI)
Using a GIS system, you can link attribute data (information) such as demographics to a location. For example, you can link property owners to the physical location of their home. You may then layer the information to explain the relationships between data. You could show the location of elementary age children and their proximity to elementary schools on a map. This type of tool helps decision makers to determine where bus routes are necessary and where sidewalks would be helpful as the children travel to school. GIS is a tool to help answer questions such as "how many robberies occurred within a specific area in a certain period of time?"" A geographic information system (GIS) could provide the answer.
GIS data works together to create a comprehensive overview of our community. The system allows Florence County to make more informed decisions and better serve the community in urban planning, economic development, voting services, resource and asset management, environmental impact assessment, crime analysis, cartography, public works, emergency services and logistics.
