Geographic Information System

    (GIS) A computer system for capturing, storing,
   checking, integrating, manipulating, analysing and displaying
   data related to positions on the Earth's surface.  Typically,
   a GIS is used for handling maps of one kind or another.  These
   might be represented as several different layers where each
   layer holds data about a particular kind of feature
   (e.g. roads).  Each feature is linked to a position on the
   graphical image of a map.

   Layers of data are organised to be studied and to perform
   statistical analysis (i.e. a layer of customer locations could
   include fields for Name, Address, Contact, Number, Area).
   Uses are primarily government related, town planning, local
   authority and public utility management, environmental,
   resource management, engineering, business, marketing, and
   distribution.

   <GIS dictionary>.

   <http://ncl.ac.uk/~ngraphic/wotzagis.html>.

   (1995-12-21)