Researched and Compiled by:

Elizabeth Haxthausen (ehax165@aol.com)

and Bryan Odom (bodom@lsu.edu)

 The textbook definition of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) is a computer-based set of tools for the study, analysis and visualization of things and events through the integration of various sources of data on a basis of a common geography.

Geographic Information Systems integrates common database operations such as query and statistical analysis with the unique visualization and geographic analysis benefits offered by maps.

Basic GIS Concepts (according to Dr. Burns of Louisiana State University)

• Map – a graphic representation of where features are, explicitly and relative to one another.
• Map Features – each feature is defined by location in space and its characteristics.
• Attributes – typically represented graphically by use of different symbols and/or colors.
• Map Legend – the key linking the attributes to their respective symbols and/or colors.
• Attribute Geographic Database System – normally set up in tabular form with explicit reference to its location on the map.
• Summary – a map portrays three kinds of information about geographic features: (1) location and extent(size) of the feature, (2) attributes of the feature, and (3) relationship of the feature to other features.

• Input - the data must first be converted into a suitable digital format.
• Manipulation - data types must be transformed or manipulated to make them compatible with your system.
• Management - it is recommended to use data management systems for large data volumes.
• Query and Analysis - GIS provides both simple point-and-click query capabilities and sophisticated analysis tools to provide information.
• Visualization - in order to efficiently store and communicate geographic information the end result is visualized as a map.

AGIS for Windows http://www.agismap.com/

AGIS for Windows is a simple GIS package specifically designed to be easy to use, and distributed as shareware via the world wide web.

Features of AGIS for Windows:

1. the available 32 bit version is designed for Windows 95, 98 and NT.
2. mapping is vector based which produces high resolution results at any scale, and publication quality displays can be cut and pasted into popular packages such as MS Word.
3. distances can be measured on-screen, cursor position is constantly updated, and almost everything in a map display is configurable.
4. animation, web serving and linking AGIS to other applications such as databases is supported via a scripting language.
5. help is available on-line, and support and tutorials are available from this web site.

Below is an example using AGIS. A version of this software is available from the link provided.

Once the program is downloaded, a map must be chosen.

Next, select the data layer options and the edit sign will pull up the data file and display style.

Then click edit to show the data display screen. Below are income levels that are distinguished by different shades of green.

Next, click on a range to bring up the data display settings. This will set the ranges. You can also change the symbols style and color. Go to "options", "select options" to name the map.

The map below is a map of Massachusetts showing the median family income.

AGIS is very easy to use. An examination copy is available and can be downloaded along with a tutorial that will help in building a map, whether it be mapping the median family income in Massachusetts or charting the flight of the albatross.

ArcView Business Analyst http://www.esri.com

ArcView Business Analyst is a unique integration of software and data in one easy-to-use package.

Advantages of ArcView Business Analyst:

• Create and analyze market areas.
• Locate customers by address.
• Locate stores.
• Produce detailed comprehensive reports.
• Analyze customer profiles.
• Find people for target marketing.
• Create simple or complex ring analysis for locations.
• Generate desire lines from your locations.
• Compute equal competition areas.
• Conduct drive time analysis.
• Perform site prospecting

Below are three different types of maps using ArcView Business Analyst. An ArcView Business Analyst movie is available from the link provided.

1. This is an example of trade areas in the San Francisco area.

2. This is an example of a map studying the time it takes to drive from one particular business location to another.

3. This is an example of using ArcView Business Analyst to view the customer profile in the san Francisco area.

ArcView Business Analyst is an easy step-by-step program that will help gain insight into various business fields by creating attractive, clean, informative maps. You can view the program as a movie.

AGIS and ArcView Business Analyst are two very good mapping tools for the business professional. In comparing the two, ArcView is more expensive than AGIS, by a difference of approximately $51.00. Although ArcView Business Analyst is more expensive, the various business features and the ease of use make it a better investment.