What is GIS?
GIS stands for "geographic information system" and refers to computer mapping tools and resources. When digital information is geographically referenced (meaning that the information is linked to specific places on the earth, using a system such as Latitude/Longitude) it can be used to create map layers as well as to perform analyses and even model hypothetical situations ("what if?" scenarios). GIS has been used by the defense, natural resources, and planning communities for many years, and is now being used by many more sectors including transportation, marketing, utilities, emergency management, sales, and education, to name just a few.
If you would like a little more information about GIS and why it is important, check out this 2-page PDF GIS Handout, or this more in-depth 16 page pamphlet GIS: Helping Vermonters Visualize Choice.
If you would like a lot more information about how GIS works and how people use GIS, visit these web sites:
