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Ob urban planning, environmental management or mobility research — modern GIS software (geographic information systems) It is impossible to imagine many areas of everyday professional life without it. It helps to efficiently collect, analyze and present large amounts of data with geographical references in clear maps.
For career starters as well as professionals, it is crucial that Basics of GIS technologies to understand in order to understand the Opportunities of the dynamic geomarket to be able to use effectively. Anyone who focuses on development at an early stage also benefits from current trends in geoinformatics.
In this article, we take a comprehensive look at the world of GIS software: We explain key terms such as vector and raster data, show what topology means and introduce practical analysis methods such as buffer zones or interpolation. You will also find out which exciting jobs in the GIS sector Waiting for you — and how you can specifically train yourself in order to Future sector to be successful.
Are you looking for GIS jobs? — Then Find them directly at GoGeoGo and start your career in geoinformation!
GIS software is at the heart of modern geodata processing. It makes it possible to Capture, store, analyze, and visualize spatial information in maps.
Core features of GIS software:
GIS applications are specialized solutions that efficiently support industry-specific tasks. Especially in areas such as urban planning, agriculture, traffic planning or disaster preparedness, they are used.
Typical applications include:
The versatility of GIS is also reflected in the Geoinformatics study landscape against: a subject area that provides comprehensive skills in dealing with geodata. GIS software revolutionizes access to spatial information — a skill that will become even more important in the future.
vector data are probably the most well-known form of geographical data in a geographic information system. They consist of Points, lines, and polygons, which are used to precisely represent real objects such as buildings, road networks or parcels of land. Each of these vectors is associated with attribute data linked—such as the name, height, or use of a building—that are managed in tabular form.
example: A point in a GIS can be a tree; its attributes include species, trunk circumference, and year of planting.
advantage: Provide vector data precise geometry and are well suited for analyses, such as for Distance calculations or area measurements.
In contrast, exist grid data from pixels — similar to a photo. They are particularly suitable for presentation continuous phenomena such as temperature, altitude models, or air pollution.
Characteristics of grid data:
Raster data requires high computing power, but in return offers Comprehensive and visually intuitive results. They are often used in combination with the Remote Sensing used.
topology describes the spatial relationships between GIS objects. It plays a central role when it comes to how objects connected to each other or adjacent are. Examples: Two surfaces are adjacent to each other. A road interrupts a stream of water. Without topology, there would be network analysesnot possible, e.g. in the transport or utility sector.
Topological relationships enable:
In order for GIS data to be represented geographically correctly, it requires a coordinate reference system (CRS). This defines how points on Earth are represented in a two-dimensional space (e.g. a map).
There are two main types:
Uniform reference systems are essentialto combine data from various sources or to make precise measurements. Erroneous projections quickly lead to inaccurate analyses and incorrect map representations.
The quality of every GIS analysis depends on the database. Therefore, the data collection an essential first step. It can be done either automatically or manually — depending on data availability, project size and accuracy requirements.
Automated methods:
Manual methods:
The aim of data collection is to save geometries and attributes as error-free and georeferenced as possible. Only then can they be reliably used in further processing.
Once the data has been collected and checked, the Map creation — the visible output of a GIS project. Relevant information is selected, analyzed and translated into understandable map layouts.
Key steps:
One A good GIS map conveys complex data clearly and comprehensibly — whether for decision support, public relations or scientific documentation.
Tip: Use appropriate colors and clear symbols — and always think of your target group!
One of the basic features in the Vector analysis of GIS software Is the Creating buffer zones (buffers). Buffers are areas that are created at a defined distance around points, lines, or areas. They are used for Analysis of areas of influence, for example during environmental impact assessments, noise protection or in hydrology.
Technical implementation:
In GIS applications such as QGIS or ArcGIS Buffer analysis is typically performed using specialized geoprocessing tools. In doing so, a numeric distance value entered (e.g. 100 m), and the software automatically generates a new vector area around the original object. Optionally, you can:
example: A 250-meter buffer around schools can be used to select all roads in this zone for traffic analyses.
Buffer zones are often input values for overlays, Clipping or Intersect analyses and play a central role in spatial decision support.
In the grid analysis Set the interpolation is a central method for calculating a continuous surface from discrete point data — e.g. to model temperature distributions, air quality or altitude profiles.
Common interpolation methods:
Implementation in GIS software:
Modern GIS systems offer interpolation via dedicated grid tools:
What is important is the correct definition of the output grid (cell size, extent, coordinate system) and the Attention to outliers, which can distort the model.
Interpolation does invisible spatial trends visible — essential for Environmental and nature protection, planning and research.
Anyone who works with geoinformation systems cannot ignore the two big players: ArcGIS by Esri And that QGIS open source project. Both are powerful tools for collecting, analyzing and visualizing spatial data — but differ fundamentally in structure, cost model and application focus areas.
arcgis is commercial GIS software with an extensive range of functions, many additional modules (e.g. ArcGIS Pro, Spatial Analyst, ArcGIS Online) and strong integration into enterprise environments. The user interface is intuitive, particularly when creating map layouts and web applications. Licenses are chargeable for this — a relevant factor, particularly in larger organizations.
QGIS On the other hand, free and open source, developed by a global community. It offers a wide range of plugins, is flexibly configurable and runs on Windows, macOS and Linux. QGIS is particularly widely used in research, NGOs and education — also because of its active community and the ability to customize it individually.
Other popular GIS programs:
The choice of GIS software depends heavily on the intended use, budget and technical requirements.
The demand for qualified professionals in the area Geographic information systems (GIS) is constantly growing. GIS experts analyze, visualize, and manage geospatial datato enable well-founded decisions in business, administration and research. They are correspondingly diverse Career paths in the GIS sector.
Typical occupations with a focus on GIS:
The areas of application range from public authorities and engineering offices via energy supplier, mobility provider up to environmental protection organizations or Start-ups in the area of location intelligence.
GIS know-how is also increasingly required in related occupations (e.g. architecture, logistics, real estate, disaster control) — in particular through Trend towards digitization and data-based planning.
Tip: Those who combine GIS expertise with expertise in other disciplines significantly increase their job opportunities.
With continuing education in QGIS, ArcGIS, data analysis, or Python for GIS Can your own profile be further sharpened — ideal for Career advancement or career advancement. By the way, attending conferences such as the FOSSGIS, is just as well suited to finding suitable employers.
Whether in urban development, environmental monitoring or mobility planning — GIS software is a key tool for data-driven work with spatial reference. Anyone who understands the technical basics and is able to use tools such as QGIS or ArcGIS with confidence creates valuable career prospects in a growing industry.
Are you looking for your start or the next career step in the GIS sector? Then find current GIS jobs at GoGeoGo — the specialized job platform for geodata professionals.
Which programming languages are particularly important in the GIS environment?
In the GIS world, python and SQL particularly in demand. Python is great for automating GIS workflows (such as using ArcPy in ArcGIS or PyQGIS in QGIS). SQL is used in the Geodatabase administration (e.g. PostGIS) used to query and analyze spatial data.
What role does open data play in professional GIS use?
Open data provides a free, constantly growing base for GIS projects. Publish public authorities, research institutes and initiatives Geodata freely accessible, e.g. on population, environment, infrastructure — ideal for analyses, prototypes or training purposes in a professional context.
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