What is GIS?

GIS stands for Geographic Information System and refers to the processing of information related to space and time (spatio-temporal) here on Earth. Commonly used on maps to show the relative location of objects, either as a snapshot or over time.

A GIS software solution is designed to record, collect, manipulate, analyze and interpret all types of spatial or geographical data. GIS data can be used within a telematics solution to provide additional insight when managing a mobile workforce, such as approaching weather.

Standards for processing GIS data are developed by an open consortium known as the OGC In addition to public domain GIS solutions, several commercial vendors provide GIS software to businesses including ESRI and CARIS. Other companies offer geospatial SDKs that allow developers to build mapping solutions that can utilize GIS data.