Geographic information systems (GIS)--a central repository of geographic data collected from various sources, including satellites and GPS--is emerging as one of the most intriguing and promising high-tech fields. This easy-to-understand resource provides technical and nontechnical professionals, regardless of their background, with an accessible and practical guide to important GIS know-how.

Developments in technologies have evolved in a much wider use of technology throughout science, government, and business; resulting in the expansion of geographic information systems. GIS is the academic study and practice of presenting geographical data through a system designed to capture, store, analyze, and manage geographic information. Geographic Information Systems: Concepts, Methodologies, Tools, and Applications is a collection of knowledge on the latest advancements and research of geographic information systems. This book aims to be useful for academics and practitioners involved in geographical data.

This second edition of Geographic Information Systems builds on the strengths of the first, and incorporates important recent advances in GIS development and major new socioeconomic datasets including new census data. Martin presents an accessible introduction to the history, principles and techniques of GIS, with a unique focus on socioeconomic applications. This non-technical volume addresses the needs of students and professionals who must understand and use GIS for the first time.

Presents strategies for application development, interface design, and enabling Web-based access. Includes numerous case studies and examples from the private and public sectors. Provides information on integrating legacy MIS systems and planning for future developments in database design.

This informative book on the principles of geographic information systems (GIS) interweaves the idea of geographic inquiry and spatial discovery throughout. It provides a comprehensive and accessible look at GIS without burdening the reader with an imposing array of equations, algorithms, computer code and command structures.

Background and history; the essential elements of a GIS; an overview; data structures; data acquisition; preprocessing; data management; manipulatioin and analysis; product generation; remote sensing and GIS; practical matters; applications; looking toward the future.