Geographic Information System

The handling of spatial data usually involves processes of data acquisition, storage and maintenance, analysis and output. For many years, this has been done using analogue data sources, manual processing and the production of paper maps. The introduction of modern technologies has led to an increased use of computers and information technology in all aspects of spatial data handling. The software technologies used in this domain are Geographic Information Systems (GIS. A GIS is provides some sets of capabilities to handle Geo-referenced data: input, data management (data storage and retrieval), manipulation and analysis, and output; an internally referenced, automated, spatial information system; a system for capturing, storing, checking, manipulating, analyzing and displaying data which are spatially referenced to the earth; and so on. This study provides details on the concept of GIS; establishes the need for Geographical Information Systems; highlights the numerous benefits associated with using Geographical Information Systems; and proposes a prototype of a Geographical Information System.