Geographic Information Systems

GIS stands for Geographic Information Systems which are computerized systems that incorporate geographic features with tabular data in order to map, analyze, and assess real world problems. GIS applications allow end users to preform analysis, edit spatial data, and create hard copy and web based maps. In the local government environment, GIS improves decision making with the help of layered information, optimizes cost savings with greater efficiency, and improves communication between different departments, elected officials, management, and the public.

Just about everything a community, business, or public agency does, whether in day-to-day operations or long-range planning, is related to its geography, especially in hyper growth communities, which is why GIS is a critical factor in contributing to informed decision-making. Many routine operations of local government are tied to a location and rely on the use of GIS to accomplish their goals. Simply put, the efficiencies generated by GIS are invaluable and greatly accelerate the speed and accuracy at which we can conduct business.