Much of our work at Banks involves GIS software. We thought we’d give you some background on these tools.
GIS, which stands for geographic/geospatial information systems, is a software tool used for analyzing the spatial components of any given data set. One of the most widely used tools is ArcGIS software, but there are also many free GIS systems available to people of all experience levels as well as plentiful online resources to learn about the various softwares. Most of the tutorials are free.
Ways to learn:
YouTube channels include GIS Helper, esritv, and TeachuGis, which provide indepth instructions on how to use ArcGis and create some visually stunning maps. These are great for people who want to learn basic functions. Here’s a video to help you get started.
Esri also offers tutorials and training. Their live training seminars are free and require no prior registration. They are a excellent resource for learning from industry professionals. In addition, Esri offers an online certification course.
Learn more here: http://www.esri.com/training/
Developed by Harvard University’s Center for Geographic Analysis, Worldmap is a free mapping software that allows users to create maps and add data to pre-existing maps on the website. It is very user friendly and interactive. Most of the maps on the site are public, so you can check out analysis being done by geographers around the world: http://worldmap.harvard.edu/
Happy mapping!
Dominica Whitesell
GIS analyst
dwhitesell@banksinfo.com
Very informative and well written intro.