Geographic Information Systems: An Introduction, 3rd Edition

1.3 Benefits of Computerizing Information

Almost all aspects of modern society use digital information, and the total amount that flows through our communication networks daily is truly staggering. GIS offers its users the ability to process quantities of data far beyond the capacities of manual systems (Figure 1.17). Data in GIS are stored in a uniform, structured manner, as opposed to manual systems in which data are stored in archives and files, within agencies, on file cards, on maps, or in long reports. Data may be retrieved from GIS databases and manipulated far more rapidly and reliably than data in manual systems. In addition, data are quickly compiled into documents using techniques that include automatic mapmaking and direct report printouts. The potential gains to be derived from switching from manually prepared maps and ordinary files to computerized GIS are considerable, in both the public and private sectors.

Figure 1.17

There are considerable gains to be made by converting to computerized information. However, unlike the results obtained with slot machines, the winnings are not based on chance.

A joint Nordic research project (Nordic KVANTIF) has evaluated the gains realized by implementing GIS through studies of its use in 50 to 60 organizations in the United States, Canada, Italy, and the five Nordic countries—Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland. The study ...