What Is GIS?
GIS, or Geographic Information System, is a computer tool that analyses information in a geographically referenced display. The data attach to unique locations, making it accurate and easy to understand.
A wide variety of businesses use GIS which displays a plethora of data. GIS can show streets, buildings, vegetation, and much more. The systems can express the location of these items as latitudes, longitudes, addresses, or ZIP codes. This allows employees and customers to easily distinguish and understand. Additionally, GIS technology can include information such as the landscape, vegetation, and soil type. It can also include location information of important sites such as drains and power lines.
What Can Geographic Information Systems Do?
Geographic Information Systems can perform and aid in a wide array of tasks. As an advanced tool, GIS gathers data from the field and provides transparency about our team and their progress. The GIS can:
- Import customer files to create maps and add details and documentation
- Import and edit parcel information
- Collect access points and staging areas on the map for crews
- Collect field hazards and work obstructions on the map
- Collect work type points and lines
- Provide documentation of landowner information
- Provide a location for notes and photos
- Track location and time of completed tasks
- Track areas needing further ROW Clearing
The abilities that GIS provides make our job safer and more efficient. Additionally, our customers are able to better understand our location and progress on their projects.
What is a Geographic Information System Used For?
Lanracorp uses the technology system as a tool in numerous jobs. For instance, before assessing the ROW, we utilize GIS to gather information such as depth of cover, encroachment, and vegetation. GIS and line locators assist us in determining the depth of cover for a project. After data has been processed by GIS technology, it can be combined or separated to create information maps. The GIS file sent to customers includes photos and information describing the project site findings.
Why It is Important to Your Business
GIS technology can be used in several different industries and tasks. Scientific research, resource management, and development planning all utilize GIS to perform necessary jobs. However, you do not have to be a tech whiz to understand and utilize GIS.
Many businesses use GIS to determine the location of a new store. Marketing companies might use the information system to determine whom and where to market to. Additionally, officials can use GIS to determine the best response in case of an emergency or natural disaster. There is truly no limit to what GIS can be used for. Businesses interested in utilizing GIS may be unsure of where to start as the technology can be overwhelming. Lanracorp employees have experience in Geographic Information System technology and can be of service to your business