What is Geographic Information System (GIS)?

A geographic information system (GIS) is a computer-based system used to map, share, analyze, manage, and interpret numerous types of geographic and location data. It is quite common to use GIS technology to apply certain data types to maps to carry out research, data analysis, and other processes for engineering, planning, design, environmental monitoring, disaster relief, search and rescue, telecommunications, and many other uses. GIS also utilizes location data and coordinates such as longitude (x-axis), latitude (y-axis), and elevation (z-value) to fulfill various purposes related to geospatial mapping and data compilation for different disciplines.