Geographical Information System

Geographical Information System (GIS) is a tool for analysis and presentation of spatial data. It is a collection of computer hardware, software and geographic data for capturing, managing, analysing and displaying all forms of geographically referenced information.

What is GIS?

Simple definition 

A Geographic Information System organizes large volumes of raw data into a map form for easy comprehension.

GIS divides raw data into layers so it can give you a better understanding for the whole world.

Why is GIS unique?

• GIS handles SPATIAL information
  • Information referenced by its location in space

GIS functions

• Data input
• Storage
• Management
• Analysis
• Output

Storing data using Geodatabase

• Geodatabase is a container for spatial and non- spatial data that can be organized in a certain structure.
• Advantages:
  • provide a single, consolidated data storage for field measurements and all types of data used.
  • Controlling data entry by applying validation rule on the attributes.

CZM and GIS

• GIS stores all data relevant for the CZM
• GIS handles data on all spatial scales (North Egypt coast vs. a single harbour)
• GIS is a powerful analysis tool.
  • Comparison of measurements from different years
  • Overlay analysis of measurements and modelling results

Data types

• DFS2 Data MIKE 21
• Dfs1 Data MIKE 21
• XYZ Data
• Wave time series & Rose
• Scanned Maps
• CAD drawing

Additional Data

• Land use
• Sediment classification
• Satellite images
• Geographical maps
• Reports (design, licenses, Site investigation)
• ….etc.

External links

Wikipedia: GIS

GIS WWWW resource list of servers likely to be of interest to the GIS community

GIS dictionary

8th January, Ulrik Lumborg and Caitlin Pilkington (caitlin.pilkington@gmail.com), DHI.