What is the Difference Between GIS and Geospatial?

GIS and Geospatial are two different terms that are often used interchangeably. However, there is a subtle difference between the two. GIS stands for Geographic Information System, while Geospatial refers to the use of geographic information within a spatial context.

A GIS is a system that captures, stores, manages, and analyzes spatial data. It allows you to create maps and perform spatial analysis on the data. Geospatial, on the other hand, is the application of GIS technology to real-world problems.

GIS technology can be used for a variety of purposes, such as land management, transportation planning, environmental management, and disaster response. Geospatial technology is also used in the field of archaeology to study the location and distribution of ancient sites and artifacts.

So, what is the difference between GIS and Geospatial? GIS is a system that captures, stores manages and analyzes spatial data. Geospatial refers to the use of geographic information within a spatial context.

So, what is the difference between GIS and geospatial?

GIS is a term that is often used interchangeably with geospatial, but there is a distinction between the two. GIS stands for Geographic Information Systems, while geospatial refers to anything having to do with geography and space. So, GIS can also be referred to as geospatial information systems. The term “geospatial” refers to the use of computer-based tools to capture, store, manipulate, analyze and display all forms of geographical data. Geography is defined by the American Library Association’s Subject Guide as the discipline that studies the lands, features, and phenomena of Earth.

In a book titled “Locating Science: The Geospatial Revolution and Scientific Practice,” Geographers Katherine Spiess and Anne Kelly Knowles identify the following three conditions that need to be met in order for geography to evolve into geospatial practices.

The American Library Association’s Subject Guide defines GIS as …

(a) Computer system for capturing, storing, checking, integrating, manipulating, and displaying data that come from such diverse sources as remote sensing devices, census reports and charts, maps (topographic and thematic), and field surveys.

(b) Any of several techniques involving the display or analysis of spatial data including the use of maps, graphs, aerial photographs, and satellite images.

(c) The process of using a computer to collect, store, manipulate, analyze and display data that have been spatially referenced.

Spiess and Knowles also identify three key activities that comprise geospatial practices: data management, analysis, and representation. Data management includes activities such as data acquisition, cleaning, and integration. Data analysis includes activities such as spatial query, overlay, and choropleth mapping. Data representation includes the production of maps, charts, and graphs.

GIS is a technology that allows for the capture, management, analysis, and visualization of spatial data. Geospatial refers to anything having to do with geography and space. So, GIS can be referred to as geospatial information systems. The three key activities that comprise geospatial practices are data management, analysis, and representation. Data management includes activities such as data acquisition, cleaning, and integration. Data analysis includes activities such as spatial query, overlay, and choropleth mapping. Data representation includes the production of maps, charts, and graphs.