GIS
Turns raw location data into maps and spatial analysis that drive planning and policy decisions.
What it is
About GIS
GIS software (most commonly Esri's ArcGIS or the open-source QGIS) lets users layer spatial datasets — land parcels, flood zones, transport networks, demographics — to analyse patterns and produce maps for decision-making. It underpins urban and land-use planning, zoning decisions, environmental impact assessment and infrastructure routing. Modern GIS platforms combine desktop analysis tools with web mapping for public-facing dashboards.
What you can do with it
Capabilities
Layer and analyse spatial datasets (land use, flood risk, transport, demographics)
Produce planning and zoning maps for consultations and applications
Run spatial analysis (buffer zones, proximity, overlay, suitability modelling)
Build interactive web maps and public-facing dashboards
Integrate with remote sensing and satellite imagery for environmental monitoring
How to learn it
Learning Resources
QGIS's free official tutorials and documentation (QGIS Training Manual)
Esri's free ArcGIS learning courses (Esri Training)
YouTube channels like Esri's official channel and GIS tutorial creators
Practise with free public datasets (UK Ordnance Survey OpenData, ONS geography data)
Pro Tip
Learn coordinate reference systems (CRS) properly before doing any real analysis — mismatched projections between layers are the single most common cause of GIS results being subtly, silently wrong.
Skills that use this tool
Roles that use this tool