GIS - Geographic Information System

A computer system for capturing, storing, checking, integrating, manipulating, analysing and displaying data related to positions on the Earth's surface. Typically, a Geographical Information System (or Spatial Information System) is used for handling maps of one kind or another. These might be represented as several different layers where each layer holds data about a particular kind of feature. Each feature is linked to a position on the graphical image of a map.
Layers of data are organised to be studied and to perform statistical analysis. Uses are primarily government related, town planning, local authority and public utility management, environmental, resource management, engineering, business, marketing, and distribution.

Excerpted from GIS Dictionary by Association for Geographic Information and the University Of Edinburgh (Department of Geography).

An organized collection of computer hardware, software, geographic data, and personnel designed to efficiently capture, store, update, manipulate, analyze, and display all forms of geographically referenced information.

Excerpted from Glossary of GIS Terms in www.esri.com Copyright © 1995-2003 ESRI