Data Science For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Chapter 13

Making Maps from Spatial Data

IN THIS CHAPTER

Working with spatial databases, data formats, map projections, and coordinate systems in GIS

Analyzing spatial data with proximity, overlay, and reclassification methods

Using QGIS to add and display spatial data

Advanced statistical methods are great tools when you need to make predictions from spatial datasets, and everyone knows that data visualization design can help you present your findings in the most effective way possible. That’s all fine and dandy, but wouldn’t it be great if you could combine the two approaches?

I’m here to tell you that it can be done. The key to putting the two together involves envisioning how one could map spatial data — spatial data visualization, in other words. Whether you choose to use a proprietary or open-source application, the simplest way to make maps from spatial datasets is to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software to help you do the job. This chapter introduces the basics of GIS and how you can use it to analyze and manipulate spatial datasets.

The proprietary GIS software, ...