Degree of Master of

GIS functionality

CEU eTD Collection
GIS has numerous functions which are dealing with geographic data from input to output. The main GIS functions are:

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  Collection, i.e. gathering information from various sources, including global communication media; the illustration demonstrates a remote sensing satellite which can be treated as the prime data source today; the digitizing table is for converting paper maps into digital computer map data via electronic tracing (Davis 2001);
  
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  Storage and management, i.e. administering and keeping track of data, including integration of different kinds of data sets into a common database; database management is replacing the physical map storage structure;
  
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  Retrieval, i.e. easy and efficient selection and viewing of data in the diversity of ways, e.g. printed maps, computer monitor display, internet (Steinberg 2006);
  
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  Conversion, i.e. change of data from one form to another or one map format to match another, for instance, converting from one geographic projection, reclassifying, recalling and other computer options which make data more useful and valuable for users;
  
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  Analysis, i.e. analyzing data to produce new outcome and insight; using distinct techniques for data research, statistical procedures and other methodologies (Tomlinson 2007);
  
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  Modeling, i.e. generalization of a data or a simple explanation of real things and processes; simplifying the data to figure out how things works and explain what the data means;
  
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  Display, i.e. presenting data by a variety of ways, e.g. maps, graphs, reports for better understanding (Davis 2001).
  

3. GIS technologies as a tool for environmental research: examples

GIS technologies are quite widespread used tool in different fields of science. Regarding interactions between GIS and science, GIS involves complete understanding about patterns, space, and processes or methodology needed to approach a scientific problem. It is a tool acting as a means to attain certain objective quickly and efficiently (Tomlinson 2007).

CEU eTD Collection
Longley explains that GIS in the context of computerized mapping and spatial analysis have been developed simultaneously in several related fields. The present status would not have been achieved without intimate interaction between various fields such as utility networks, cadastral mapping, topographic mapping, thematic cartography, earth science, geography, surveying and photogrammetery remote sensing, image processing, computer science, rural and urban planning (Longley, Goodchild et al. 2005).
According to Shamsi (2000), the GIS technologies are rapidly becoming standard tools for management of natural resources. The effective use of large spatial data volumes is dependent upon the existence of an efficient geographic handling and processing system to transform this data into usable information. The GIS technology is used to assist decision- makers by indicating various alternatives in development and conservation planning and by modeling the potential outcomes of a series of scenarios (Shamsi 2000). Shahab describes the major areas of GIS application, they are:

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