What do geographic information systems do today?
The geographic approach is not simply putting dots on maps or simple visualization, but the incorporation of many layers of geographic measurement. The powerful vision here is not just making a map but integrating all of the factors that should be considered. Fast-food chains use [GIS] as their framework for site selection and also for market analysis — that is, to determine what the market is for particular products or services. It’s data management, it’s data processing with complex data, it’s multiuser access and processing, it’s integration with other IT layers like data management and Web services. It’s powerful visualization, 3-D rotation in real time, photography, the ability to handle complex models that are science-based. It’s about integrating many types of measurements — GPS measurements, remotely sensed measurements. It’s a complex technology. What is your vision? To use information technology and specifically geographic information systems to make a difference. It starte